Jorhat, Assam, June 14, 2026: In a tragic incident that has shaken the Indian defence establishment, an Indian Air Force (IAF) Antonov AN-32 transport aircraft crashed on Saturday near the Air Force Station in Jorhat, Assam. Five IAF personnel lost their lives in the accident, which occurred during what officials described as a ‘routine sortie.’ The Indian Air Force has launched a formal inquiry into the incident as search and rescue operations continue in the affected area.
What Happened: The Incident
The IAF AN-32 transport aircraft took off from the Jorhat Air Force Station for a routine training mission on the morning of June 13, 2026. The aircraft met with an accident in the Jorhat region of Assam while attempting to land at the Rowriah airbase. The aircraft was carrying 13 personnel onboard at the time of the accident, with five losing their lives in the crash. Sukhoi fighter jets and C-130 Hercules transport aircraft were deployed for search and rescue operations.
IAF’s Official Statement
The Indian Air Force confirmed the incident through an official statement, saying the aircraft ‘met with an accident’ during a ‘routine sortie’ near Jorhat, Assam. The IAF expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased personnel and assured them that a Court of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the exact cause of the crash. The government also expressed sorrow over the tragic loss of IAF personnel.
About the AN-32 Aircraft
The Antonov AN-32 is a twin-turboprop military transport aircraft that has been a workhorse of the Indian Air Force for decades. It is used primarily for supply operations, troop movement, and airdrops in difficult terrain, especially in the high-altitude regions of Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Northeast. The IAF operates dozens of AN-32 aircraft, which are manufactured by Ukraine-based Antonov. In recent years, the aircraft have undergone major upgrades to extend their operational life. However, the AN-32 has also had a troubled safety record in India, with several accidents recorded over the years.
History of AN-32 Accidents in India
This is not the first time an IAF AN-32 has been involved in a fatal accident. The most significant tragedy involving this aircraft type was in June 2019, when an AN-32 with 13 personnel on board went missing over Arunachal Pradesh and was never found. In 2016, an AN-32 crashed near Pathankot, Punjab, killing four crew members. These incidents have reignited debates about the need to phase out ageing aircraft from the IAF fleet and accelerate procurement of newer transport planes.
Government and Public Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed condolences to the families of the deceased IAF personnel. Several political leaders, civil society organisations, and veteran military associations also offered tributes to the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty. The nation mourns their sacrifice and service to the country.
Defence Modernisation in Focus
This tragic incident has once again brought the issue of India’s defence modernisation into sharp focus. India has been ramping up its efforts to reduce dependence on ageing Soviet-era aircraft and is in the process of inducting new transport platforms. Under the ‘Make in India’ programme and strategic import policies, the IAF is looking at long-term solutions for its transport fleet. The government has also been in talks for the procurement of additional C-17 Globemaster and C-130 Hercules aircraft to strengthen the IAF’s strategic airlift capabilities.
Conclusion
The loss of five brave Indian Air Force personnel in the AN-32 crash near Jorhat is a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by our defence forces every day. Press of Asia extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and stands with the Indian Air Force in this hour of grief. The investigation findings are awaited, and we will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.