SOURCE: AFI
A technical snag on an Indian Air Force (IAF) Su-30MKI fighter jet led to the inadvertent release of an “air store” near the Pokhran testing range in Rajasthan, causing a blast and creating a crater at the impact site. Fortunately, no damage to life or property has been reported, but the incident has raised concerns about the safety protocols of military exercises conducted near populated areas.
According to India Today reports, the practice bomb fell in an open area near a village close to the Pokhran Field Firing Range. The explosion created a loud noise, and a crater was visible at the impact site. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud bang and feeling the ground shake. However, idrw.org suggest that the wreckage found at the site does not resemble that of a typical practice bomb, but rather appears to be from a missile system.
Sources indicate that the IAF fighter jet involved in the mishap was a Su-30MKI, one of the most advanced aircraft in the Indian Air Force’s inventory. The aircraft was reportedly carrying an air-to-surface missile system intended for a scheduled test. It is suspected that a stray voltage triggered the unintentional release of the weapon, causing it to fall prematurely. This technical issue has prompted an investigation by the IAF to determine the exact cause of the malfunction and to prevent such incidents in the future.
Sources indicate that the weapon system misfired due to a stray voltage, which might have inadvertently activated the air-to-surface missile. Such malfunctions can occur due to a variety of reasons, including technical errors, electronic malfunctions, or human error. The IAF has launched a thorough investigation to ascertain the precise cause of the incident and ensure that all safety protocols were followed.
Following the incident, Indian Air Force officials confirmed that an inquiry had been initiated to investigate the technical snag that led to the inadvertent release. An official statement from the IAF noted, “The Indian Air Force takes such incidents very seriously and has initiated a court of inquiry to establish the cause of the inadvertent release of the air store. We assure the public that there is no threat to life or property in the surrounding areas.”