IAF’s Sukhoi Fighter Jet Crashes In Nashik, Both Pilots Eject Safely

A Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet crashed in a field in Maharashtra’s Nashik today, creating a concerning scene as smoke billowed into the sky.

Thankfully, the pilot and co-pilot managed to eject safely, though they suffered minor injuries. The crash occurred near Shirasgaon village, according to a senior police officer.

Eyewitnesses captured visuals of the incident, showing the twin-engine aircraft engulfed in flames with a crowd quickly gathering at the crash site. The aircraft had taken off from Ozar in Nashik for a test flight after undergoing maintenance by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), sources told NDTV.

The pilots had reported a technical problem before the crash. Interestingly, this Su-30MKI was not part of the Indian Air Force’s active fleet at the time, sources added.

Emergency services and police were swift to reach the site, and the injured pilots are now receiving medical care.

Sukhoi’s Ejection System

The Su-30MKI features the advanced zero-zero NPP Zvezda K-36DM ejection seat, made in Russia. This system allows pilots to safely escape from the aircraft even at low altitudes or speeds, or during takeoff and landing accidents. The ejection process involves explosives under the seat and canopy, as well as parachutes, to ensure the pilot is propelled away from the aircraft at the correct angle.

During ejection, pilots experience intense g-forces, up to 20 times the normal force of gravity, which can result in severe injuries and possibly end their flying careers. The extent of injuries suffered by the pilots in today’s crash is still unknown.

Backbone of the IAF

The Su-30 is a cornerstone of the Indian Air Force, with over 200 aircraft in various squadrons across the country. This twin-engine, twin-seater, fourth-generation fighter jet, originally built in Russia and now produced under license by HAL, has been in service for over 20 years. The MKI version is the latest and most advanced upgrade of this reliable aircraft.