Indian Air Force Contingent Arrives in Australia for Exercise Pitch Black 2024

The IAF contingent comprises over 150 skilled Air Warriors, including pilots, engineers, technicians, controllers, and subject matter experts.

A contingent from the Indian Air Force (IAF) has landed at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Darwin to participate in Exercise Pitch Black 2024. Scheduled from July 12 to August 2, this biennial multinational exercise hosted by the RAAF focuses on enhancing international cooperation and military capabilities through Large Force Employment warfare tactics.

Named for its emphasis on nighttime flying over expansive, uninhabited areas, Pitch Black 2024 marks the largest edition in its 43-year history, drawing participation from 20 countries. The exercise will involve more than 140 aircraft and 4400 military personnel, including IAF's Su-30 MKI multirole fighters operating alongside aircraft such as the F-35, F-22, F-18, F-15, Gripen, and Typhoon.

The IAF contingent comprises over 150 skilled Air Warriors, including pilots, engineers, technicians, controllers, and subject matter experts. They will utilize Su-30 MKI fighters, C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft, and IL-78 Air-to-Air Refuelling aircraft in combat support roles, aiming to integrate forces and exchange best practices with allied nations.

Exercise Pitch Black 2024 serves as a platform for enhancing the operational readiness of participating nations in deploying over long distances and conducting integrated operations in the Indo-Pacific region. It also strengthens aviation partnerships amidst a complex operational environment. The IAF has previously participated in the 2018 and 2022 editions of this prominent multinational exercise.