IAF Pilot Killed in Su-30 Crash Days Before Wedding

A tragic fighter jet crash in Assam has claimed the life of Indian Air Force pilot Anuj Vashisht, cutting short a promising career and a personal milestone that was just days away. The 33-year-old officer died when a Sukhoi Su-30MKI crashed during a routine training mission, leaving his family and the defence community in shock.

The aircraft had taken off from Jorhat Air Force Station on March 6 for a training sortie. Shortly after departure, the jet reportedly lost contact with radar before crashing in the hilly terrain of Karbi Anglong, around 60 kilometres from the airbase. Both pilots on board were killed in the accident. Along with Squadron Leader Vashisht, Purvesh Duragkar also lost his life in the crash. The two officers had been carrying out a routine operational exercise when the incident occurred. The Indian Air Force later confirmed the deaths and expressed condolences to the bereaved families.

For Vashisht’s family in Gurugram, the news came as a devastating blow. Preparations were reportedly underway for his wedding, which was scheduled to take place in the coming days. What was meant to be a time of celebration quickly turned into mourning when an Air Force official informed the family about the accident.

Originally from Haryana, Vashisht had served in the Indian Air Force for nearly a decade and was known among colleagues for his dedication and professionalism. His father, a retired Army subedar, had also served in the armed forces. The Indian Air Force has ordered an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Officials said a detailed inquiry would examine the circumstances surrounding the accident involving the advanced fighter aircraft.