An advanced Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet of the Indian Air Force went missing in the skies over Assam during a routine training mission on Thursday night, triggering an urgent search operation. According to official sources, the aircraft took off from the Jorhat Air Base at around 7:00 pm and was conducting a scheduled training sortie when it suddenly lost contact with ground control.
The aircraft reportedly disappeared from radar at around 7:42 pm while flying over areas near the Karbi Anglong district. As soon as communication was lost, the Indian Air Force authorities alerted emergency teams and initiated immediate measures to trace the missing jet. The sudden loss of radar contact raised concerns about a possible crash or technical failure.
Following the incident, the Air Force launched a large-scale search and rescue (SAR) operation in the suspected area. Helicopters and surveillance aircraft have been deployed to scan the dense forests and hilly terrain of Karbi Anglong. Local residents reportedly heard a loud sound near the Chokihola area, prompting rescue teams to intensify the search in that region.
Defence officials confirmed that two pilots were on board the Sukhoi Su-30MKI at the time of the incident, but their condition remains unknown. Rescue operations are facing challenges due to thick forests, difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. The Su-30MKI is one of the most powerful fighter jets in the Indian Air Force fleet, and a detailed investigation is likely to be ordered once more information about the incident emerges.