Bhopal: Two Indian Air Force fighter jets, a Sukhoi Su-30 and a Mirage 2000, crashed during a training exercise resulting in one pilot’s death, according to officials. The Sukhoi had two pilots who ejected and were rescued, while the Mirage had one pilot. The aircraft took off from the Gwalior Air Force base and were used on the frontlines.
The IAF deeply regrets to inform that Wg Cdr Hanumanth Rao Sarathi suffered fatal injuries during the accident. All air warriors and the fraternity stand strongly with the bereaved family.
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) January 28, 2023
Videos from the crash site showed smoldering debris on the ground. The Indian Air Force has launched a probe to determine if a mid-air collision led to the crash. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has been briefed, and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed sadness and instructed the local administration to assist in rescue and relief work.
The investigation into the cause of the crash will likely determine the steps necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future. In the meantime, the Indian Air Force and the families of the affected pilots are likely grieving the loss of one of their own. The safety and well-being of military personnel is of utmost importance and every precaution should be taken to ensure their protection. The international community will likely continue to monitor the situation and offer support as needed.
The loss of a military aircraft, especially during training exercises, is a significant event. Such incidents can have far-reaching consequences for the military organization and the families of those involved. The Air Force and the Indian government will likely work together to provide support and assistance to the affected pilots’ families and the personnel at the Gwalior Air Force base. This will include counseling and other forms of support to help them through this difficult time.
The investigation into the cause of the crash will be crucial in understanding what happened and preventing similar incidents in the future. The aviation community will likely be watching closely to see the investigation results and learn from any lessons that may emerge.
