Tragic Incident in Assam
The Indian Air Force (IAF) stated, “The IAF acknowledges the loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar, who sustained fatal injuries in the Su-30 crash.” This tragic event unfolded on March 6, 2026, when a Sukhoi Su-30MKI aircraft crashed during a routine training mission in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam.
The aircraft took off from Jorhat airbase and was last in contact with ground control at approximately 7:42 PM. Local residents reported hearing a loud explosion-like sound near the crash site, which is located about 60 kilometers from Jorhat.
Search and rescue operations were promptly initiated following the aircraft’s disappearance. Unfortunately, both pilots were confirmed deceased at the scene. The IAF expressed its condolences, stating, “All personnel of the IAF express sincere condolences and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief.”
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is a two-seater multirole long-range fighter jet developed by Russian manufacturer Sukhoi and built under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The IAF operates a fleet of over 260 Su-30MKI jets, which have been integral to India’s air defense capabilities.
This incident marks another somber chapter in the history of the Su-30MKI, which has seen previous accidents, including crashes in June 2024 and January 2023. The IAF is expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this latest crash.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific causes of the crash, but the IAF is committed to uncovering the facts as they emerge. The loss of these two pilots is a significant blow to the IAF and the families affected by this tragedy.
