IAF Sukhoi fighter jet crashes in Karbi Anglong

A Sukhoi Su-30MKI of the Indian Air Force reportedly crashed in Karbi Anglong on Thursday evening.
According to reports, the fighter jet crashed around 7.45 pm at Rangkhelan village near Nilip block of Chakihola. The aircraft had taken off from Rowriah Air Force Station in Jorhat.
A statement issued by the Defence PRO in Guwahati said the jet went missing after radar contact was lost. Air Force teams were immediately launched to ascertain the facts and locate the aircraft.
In a post on X, the Indian Air Force said an IAF Su-30MKI aircraft was reported overdue after taking off from Jorhat and was last in contact at 7.42 pm. “Further details are being ascertained. Search and Rescue mission has been initiated,” the statement said.
Residents of the area said they saw the fighter jet crashing on a hilltop in the evening. According to eyewitnesses, the aircraft exploded on impact and a massive fireball was seen rising from the crash site.
Local reports said the crash site is located on the peak of a tall hill, making access difficult for rescue teams. There was no immediate report of the pilots ejecting from the aircraft.