An Indian Army helicopter crashed in Bhutan during a routine sortie, killing two officers, including a Royal Bhutanese Army pilot.
According to Indian Army spokesperson Colonel Aman Anand, the single engine Cheetah helicopter was piloted by an Indian Army pilot (Lieutenant Colonel rank) and a Royal Bhutanese Army pilot.
Indian Army undertakes training of pilots of friendly nations as part of the Indian Army Training Team.
"The helicopter was on its way from Khirmu (Arunachal Pradesh) to Yongphulla in Bhutan on administrative duty. The helicopter crashed at 1pm near Yongphullla in Bhutan after it went out of radio and visual contact," Colonel Anand said.
He added that ground search and rescue operation were launched immediately from Yongphulla.
"IAF and Army helicopters were launched from Misamari, Guwahati and Hashimara bases. Subsequently, wreckage was located. There are no survivors," Colonel Anand said.
The deceased pilots have been identified as Lt Col Rajneesh Parmar (IA) and Capt Kalzang Wangdi (RBA).