A twin-seater Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed near Sunari Chowki in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, during a routine training sortie. Fortunately, both pilots ejected safely, averting any casualties.
Incident Details
According to Defence officials, the aircraft encountered a system malfunction mid-flight, forcing the pilots to initiate emergency ejection procedures. Visuals from the crash site show debris of the aircraft engulfed in flames, with thick plumes of smoke rising from the wreckage.
The IAF confirmed the incident via an official statement on social media platform X, stating:
“A Mirage 2000 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Shivpuri (Gwalior), during a routine training sortie today, after encountering a system malfunction. Both the pilots ejected safely. An enquiry has been ordered by the IAF to ascertain the cause of the accident.”
Court of Inquiry Ordered
A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the crash, focusing on potential technical issues or mechanical failures. The investigation will also examine the aircraft’s maintenance records, operational history, and pre-flight checks.
Recent Similar Incidents
This incident comes just months after a MiG-29 fighter jet crashed near Agra, Uttar Pradesh, in November 2024, during a routine training sortie. In that case, the pilot also ejected safely after encountering a technical glitch.
About the Mirage 2000
The Mirage 2000, a key asset of the IAF, has been in service since the 1980s and played a pivotal role in several operations, including the Balakot airstrikes in 2019. Known for its agility, speed, and precision strike capability, it remains a vital part of India’s air defense arsenal.
No Civilian Casualties Reported
As of now, there are no reports of civilian casualties or property damage on the ground. Local authorities and emergency response teams swiftly reached the crash site to secure the area and assist in firefighting operations.
Further details will emerge as the Court of Inquiry progresses, shedding light on the circumstances leading to the incident.
