An Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent has arrived at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Darwin for Exercise Pitch Black 2024, as announced in an official release by the IAF today.
Scheduled from July 12 to August 2, Exercise Pitch Black is a biennial multinational exercise hosted by the RAAF, emphasising night-time flying across vast unpopulated areas.
This year marks its largest edition in its 43-year history, with participation from 20 countries, featuring over 140 aircraft and 4400 military personnel from various air forces.
The focus of Exercise Pitch Black 2024 will be on Large Force Employment warfare, aimed at enhancing international cooperation and providing experience for the IAF Su-30 MKI alongside other advanced fighter aircraft like the F-35, F-22, F-18, F-15, Gripen, and Typhoon.
The IAF contingent includes more than 150 skilled Air Warriors, comprising pilots, engineers, technicians, controllers, and subject matter experts. They will operate the Su-30 MKI multirole fighters, supported by C-17 Globemaster and IL-78 Air-to-Air Refuelling aircraft in combat roles.
Participation in Exercise Pitch Black 2024 will enable the IAF to integrate forces with other nations and exchange best practices. It also strengthens the ability of participating nations to conduct operations across vast distances, support integrated operations in the Indo-Pacific region, and build robust aviation partnerships in challenging environments.
According to the official release, the IAF has previously participated in the 2018 and 2022 editions of Exercise Pitch Black, underscoring its commitment to multinational military cooperation and operational readiness.
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