Two Indian Air Force pilots were killed after a Sukhoi Su-30MKI crashed in the Karbi Anglong district. The Indian Air Force confirmed the deaths of Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar, who succumbed to severe injuries after the accident.

The Russian-origin fighter jet had gone missing a day earlier during a training sortie. It had taken off from Jorhat Air Force Station on Thursday and disappeared from radar shortly after takeoff. According to officials, contact with the aircraft was lost at around 7:42 pm.

Local residents reported hearing a loud explosion after the aircraft crashed. People in the area were seen assisting in the search operation using torches and lights.

In a brief statement, the Indian Air Force expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two pilots and extended condolences to their families during this difficult time.

Meanwhile, in Nagpur, Ravindra Duragkar remembered his son Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar, saying they had last spoken on the phone on Wednesday and had met about ten days earlier during a family gathering. The 28-year-old pilot had also participated in Operation Sindoor, and his father said he was fully dedicated to his duty.