The missing Indian pilot was flying a Russian MiG-29K, like the planes seen here, when it crashed into the sea; his co-pilot was rescued. ©MOD/AFP/File HO

 

New Delhi (AFP) – A body has been found in the search for an Indian fighter pilot whose jet crashed into the Arabian Sea during a training exercise some 10 days ago, the air force said Monday.

The Russian MiG-29K jet hit the water off the coast of western Goa state on November 26. One of the two officers on board was rescued.

The military launched a massive air and sea search for the missing officer, deploying helicopter teams and diving units.

“Mortal remains of a human body have been recovered in the vicinity of the wreckage site,” the air force said in a statement, adding that all parts of the jet had been spotted using sonar and underwater cameras.

“The samples are being sent for DNA testing for confirmation of identity.”

The body, which was found at a depth of some 70 metres (230 feet), is believed to be that of the missing pilot, The Times of India reported.

The accident happened just days after India conducted joint military exercises with the United States, Japan and Australia.

The military has sought to modernise its ageing fighter jet force, particularly in recent years amid tensions with nuclear-armed neighbours China and Pakistan.

Numerous crashes in the past few decades led to some of the planes being dubbed “flying coffins” because of their poor safety record.

The first eight of 36 Rafale fighter jets bought from France arrived in India earlier this year.

Disclaimer: Validity of the above story is for 7 Days from original date of publishing. Source: AFP.