Sukhoi Jet Crash : An Indian Air Force Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet crashed on Thursday evening during a routine mission in Assam. The aircraft had taken off from the Jorhat Air Base and was flying over the hilly region of Karbi Anglong when it suddenly lost contact with ground control.
According to the Indian Air Force, the last communication with the aircraft was recorded at around 7:42 PM. Soon after, the fighter jet disappeared from radar, prompting an immediate search operation.
Wreckage Found in Forest Area
Later, debris from the aircraft was located in the forested region of Karbi Anglong. Rescue teams from the Air Force, along with local administration and security agencies, quickly moved to the area to begin search and rescue operations.
Authorities have also deployed helicopters to carry out aerial surveillance and locate the pilot. Officials said that the exact condition of the pilot will only be confirmed once rescue teams reach the crash site.
Villagers Heard Loud Explosion
Residents of Rangkhokolan village in Karbi Anglong reported hearing a loud explosion around 7:50 PM near Kola hill. Several locals said they saw a large fireball rising from the hills shortly after the sound.The sudden blast caused panic in nearby villages, and locals immediately informed the authorities.
Investigation Ordered
The Ministry of Defence confirmed that senior Air Force and Army officials have been sent to the area. A formal investigation has been ordered to determine the cause of the crash.
Officials said it is too early to say what led to the accident, and more details will emerge once the wreckage is examined and search teams complete their work.
Previous Incidents Involving Sukhoi-30MKI
This is not the first time a Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft has been involved in an accident. In August 2019, a similar fighter jet crashed into a paddy field near Tezpur in Assam during a routine training mission. Both pilots managed to eject safely and were later rescued.
Earlier in May 2015, another Sukhoi-30MKI crashed about 36 kilometers south of the Tezpur Air Force Base shortly after take-off. In that incident too, both pilots ejected safely before the aircraft went down.
Authorities are currently focused on the ongoing rescue efforts and determining what caused the latest crash.