In Shorts
- Indian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30MKI lost radar contact during a sortie over Assam.
- The fighter jet had taken off from the Jorhat air base before communication was lost.
- Search and rescue teams have been deployed to locate the aircraft and crew.
A frontline fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force has gone missing after losing radar contact during a mission over the northeastern state of Assam on Thursday evening. Officials confirmed that the aircraft involved is a Sukhoi Su-30MKI, one of the most powerful fighter jets in India’s combat fleet.
According to defence officials, the aircraft took off from the air base in Jorhat and was last in contact with ground control at around 7:42 pm. Soon after the communication stopped, the jet was reported overdue, triggering an immediate response from the Air Force.
Authorities said the aircraft disappeared from radar while flying over the hilly region of Karbi Anglong district. The area is known for dense forests and rugged terrain, which could complicate search and rescue operations. Defence teams along with local administration and security agencies have been mobilised to locate the aircraft.
The Air Force has launched an extensive search mission and is working to determine the exact circumstances behind the sudden loss of radar contact. Officials are currently verifying details about the aircraft’s last known position and the number of personnel on board.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is considered a key component of India’s aerial defence capability. Inducted in the early 2000s, the twin engine multirole fighter jet combines Russian design with Indian, French, and Israeli avionics and weapon systems. It is widely regarded as the backbone of India’s fighter fleet.
Officials have not yet confirmed whether the aircraft has crashed. However, some local reports suggested people in the area heard a loud sound around the time the jet disappeared. Authorities are continuing search operations and have said more information will be released as soon as confirmed details emerge.
The situation remains a developing story, with defence authorities closely monitoring the operation to locate the missing fighter jet and ensure the safety of the crew.
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