TNI Bureau: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has confirmed the tragic loss of two officers after a Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet crashed in Assam during a training mission.

Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar sustained fatal injuries in the accident, the IAF said in an official statement.

According to defence officials, the aircraft had taken off from the airbase in Jorhat on Thursday evening but lost contact with ground control at around 7:42 pm. The jet later crashed in a remote hilly area of Karbi Anglong district, about 60 kilometres from Jorhat.

Local residents reported hearing a loud explosion-like sound in the area around the time of the crash, after which search and rescue teams were immediately deployed. The aircraft was on a routine training sortie when the incident occurred.

In its statement, the Air Force said: “IAF acknowledges the loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar, who sustained fatal injuries in the Su-30 crash. All personnel of the IAF express sincere condolences and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief.”

The Sukhoi-30MKI is one of the IAF’s most advanced multi-role fighter jets and forms a crucial part of India’s air combat capability. A court of inquiry is expected to be ordered to determine the exact cause of the crash.

Tributes have begun pouring in for the two officers, who are being remembered for their courage, dedication, and service to the nation.