Article Posted on : - Jul 12, 2024

The Indian Air Force team would be taking part in the multinational exercise 'Pitch Black' in Australia. (Photo: PIB)

NEW DELHI (BNS): An Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent has landed at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) base in Darwin, Australia to participate in ‘Exercise Pitch Black’ 2024.

The biennial, multi-national exercise being hosted by Australia will be conducted from July 12 to August 02, 2024, an official statement said here.

This year’s edition is slated to be the largest in the 43-year long history of Ex Pitch Black, which includes participation by 20 countries, with over 140 aircraft and 4,400 military personnel of various air forces.

The exercise will be focusing on “Large Force Employment warfare” aimed at strengthening international cooperation and shall facilitate experience enhancement with the IAF’s Su-30MKI fighter aircraft operating alongside the F-35, F-22, F-18, F-15, Gripen and Typhoon fighter aircraft, the statement said.

The IAF contingent comprises of over 150 highly skilled Air Warriors including pilots, engineers, technicians, controllers and other subject matter experts, who will be operating the formidable Su-30MKI multi-role fighters along with the C-17 Globemaster and the IL-78 air-to-air refuelling aircraft in combat enabling roles, it said.

The exercise would provide the IAF with an opportunity towards force integration with participating nations and mutual exchange of best practices.

The name 'Pitch Black' was derived from the emphasis on night time flying over large un-populated areas.

“The exercise provides an excellent opportunity for strengthening the ability of the participating nations to deploy over large distances, support integrated operations in the Indo-Pacific region and building strong aviation associations in a highly challenging environment,” the MoD statement said.

The IAF has previously participated in the 2018 and 2022 editions of Ex Pitch Black.