New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Wednesday said that one of its fighter jets accidentally released an “air store” near the Pokhran firing range due to a technical malfunction. In a social media post on X, the IAF assured the public that there were no casualties or damage to property as a result of the incident.
The incident occurred during a routine operation when the air store, which generally refers to munitions, bombs or other military equipment carried by aircraft, was unintentionally released. The specific type of air store involved has not been revealed. The IAF said that it has initiated an inquiry to determine the cause of the malfunction.
The Indian Air Force posted on X: “An inadvertent release of an air store from an Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter aircraft took place near Pokhran firing range area, due to technical malfunction, today. An enquiry by the IAF has been ordered to investigate into the incident. No damage to life or property has been reported.” The Pokhran firing range, located in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, is a key site for testing and training exercises by the Indian armed forces.
Accidental BrahMos missile launch 2022
In a similar incident which was more serious event in March 2022, when India accidentally launched a BrahMos missile into Pakistan. The unarmed missile landed in Mian Channu, located in the Khanewal District of Punjab, Pakistan. Although the missile did not explode, it damaged buildings and created a crater in a field, causing initial confusion and alarm among the local population.
The incident had the potential to escalate into a significant diplomatic or military crisis, but it was promptly addressed by the Indian authorities. They acknowledged the mistake and explained that it was caused by a “technical malfunction” during routine maintenance.