GUWAHATI: A pall of gloom descended over the Indian Air Force after two of its fighter pilots lost their lives in a tragic crash involving a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter aircraft.
In an official statement, the IAF confirmed that Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar suffered fatal injuries when their aircraft crashed during operations. Both officers were serving fighter pilots and were on duty when the accident occurred.
The Air Force expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling it a grave and irreparable loss to the service.
“The Indian Air Force expresses profound grief at the loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar in the Su-30 crash. We stand firmly with the bereaved families in this moment of immense tragedy,” the force said in its message of condolence.
The twin-seat Su-30 fighter jet is one of the frontline combat aircraft of the IAF, widely deployed for air defence and strategic missions.
While the exact cause of the crash has not yet been officially disclosed, a court of inquiry is expected to be ordered to ascertain the circumstances that led to the accident.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted the risks faced by fighter pilots, who routinely undertake high-intensity flying missions to safeguard the nation’s skies.
Messages of condolence have begun pouring in from across the defence community and citizens, remembering the two pilots for their service, courage and sacrifice in the line of duty.
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