A fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force, the Sukhoi Su‑30MKI, went missing shortly after taking off from the Jorhat Air Force Station in the northeastern state of Assam, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation by defence authorities.
Aircraft Lost Radar Contact
According to official sources, the fighter jet had taken off from Jorhat for a routine training mission when it suddenly lost radar and communication contact with air traffic control. The incident occurred during the evening hours, raising concerns about the safety of the aircraft and its crew.
The aircraft was reportedly flying over areas near the hilly terrain of Karbi Anglong district when contact with the ground station was lost.
Two Pilots Were Onboard
Defence officials confirmed that two pilots were onboard the aircraft at the time of the incident. Their condition was not immediately known after the aircraft went missing. The Indian Air Force quickly launched a large-scale search and rescue mission involving helicopters, ground teams, and local authorities.
Local residents in some nearby villages reported hearing a loud explosion-like sound, which raised suspicion that the aircraft may have crashed in the forested hill region.
Search and Rescue Operation
Teams from the Indian Air Force, along with local administration and security forces, began scanning the remote forest areas and hills of Karbi Anglong. Due to the rugged terrain and dense forest cover, search operations were challenging.
Authorities are also using aerial surveillance and ground patrol units to locate the aircraft and determine the fate of the crew members.
Backbone of India’s Air Power
The Sukhoi Su‑30MKI is one of the most advanced and powerful fighter jets operated by the Indian Air Force. Known for its long range, heavy weapon capacity, and superior maneuverability, the aircraft forms a key part of India’s air defence capability.
The Indian Air Force has initiated an internal investigation to determine the cause of the disappearance, including the possibility of technical malfunction, adverse weather conditions, or other operational issues.
Investigation Expected
Defence officials stated that further information will be released once the aircraft is located and the circumstances surrounding the incident are confirmed.
The incident has raised concerns within defence circles, and authorities are working urgently to locate the missing jet and its crew.