MiG-21 fighter jet of Air Force crashes in Rajasthan, both pilots dead

An Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed in Rajasthan's Barmer district on Thursday evening. The incident was reported at around 9 pm. Two pilots have lost their lives in the crash.

The debris of the aircraft was found scattered on a half-kilometer stretch in Bhimda village in Barmer district. The area's district collector, superintendent of police and air force officials left for the spot after getting the news.

The MiG aircraft was involved in a sortie over the Baytu region when the crash happened. The exact reason for the crash is not known yet.

"IAF deeply regrets the loss of



lives and stands firmly with the bereaved families. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident," the Indian Air Force said in a statement.

Their service to the nation will never be forgotten, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh condoling the death of the Air Force pilots.

"Deeply saddened to know two IAF pilots have lost their lives in the line of duty when an IAF MiG-21 trainer aircraft met with an accident in Barmer. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families. May they remain strong to bear this loss. We stand with them and share their grief," said Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot.