The IAF contingent includes over 150 highly skilled Air Warriors
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed a formidable contingent to participate in Exercise Pitch Black 2024 at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base in Darwin, Australia. The exercise, scheduled from July 12 to August 2, 2024, is a biennial multinational event hosted by the RAAF. This year’s iteration is poised to be the largest in its 43-year history, featuring participation from 20 countries, with over 140 aircraft and approximately 4,435 military personnel.
 
Exercise Pitch Black focuses on Large Force Employment (LFE) warfare, a concept that involves coordinating large numbers of aircraft in complex missions. The exercise emphasizes night-time operations over vast, unpopulated areas, a practice that hones the skills required for effective air combat and strategic deployment under challenging conditions.

The IAF contingent includes over 150 highly skilled Air Warriors, comprising pilots, engineers, technicians, controllers, and other subject matter experts. The Indian contingent will operate the Su-30 MKI multirole fighters, supported by the C-17 Globemaster and IL-78 Air-to-Air Refuelling aircraft. These aircraft are vital for combat enabling roles and force integration with other participating nations.
 
The participation of the IAF in Exercise Pitch Black 2024 provides an excellent opportunity for the force to engage in realistic and demanding training. It also facilitates the exchange of best practices and operational expertise with other advanced air forces. Notably, the Su-30 MKI will operate alongside the F-35, F-22, F-18, F-15, Gripen, and Typhoon fighter aircraft, showcasing a diverse array of air combat capabilities.

Exercise Pitch Black is a cornerstone event for strengthening international aviation cooperation. It allows participating nations to enhance their ability to deploy across vast distances, support integrated operations, and build robust aviation associations. For the IAF, the exercise is an opportunity to demonstrate its operational readiness and integrate seamlessly with other air forces in the Indo-Pacific region.
 
The RAAF has expressed gratitude for the support and interest from communities across northern Australia. The exercise not only strengthens military ties but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among the participating nations. It underscores the value of regional security and the importance of fostering closer ties throughout the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

Exercise Pitch Black has a rich history, dating back to its inception in June 1981 at RAAF Base Williamtown in New South Wales. Initially a three-day air defence exercise, it has evolved into a comprehensive biennial event involving multiple nations. The exercise was first held in Darwin in May 1983 and has since become a significant fixture in the Northern Territory’s calendar.
 
Over the years, Exercise Pitch Black has witnessed participation from over 20 nations, along with international contingents such as NATO and the Multinational MRTT Unit. The exercise’s name, derived from the emphasis on night-time flying over large, unpopulated areas, reflects its core training philosophy.

The participation of the IAF in Exercise Pitch Black 2024 is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance its operational capabilities and readiness. By engaging in complex, multinational exercises, the IAF continues to build on its strengths and develop new competencies. The experience gained from such exercises is invaluable for maintaining a state of high preparedness and operational excellence.
 
For the RAAF and other participating air forces, Exercise Pitch Black is a platform to test and refine their skills in a challenging and realistic environment. It provides an opportunity to integrate and operate alongside some of the most advanced air combat capabilities in the world. The exercise also supports an International Observer Group program, allowing foreign forces to gain insights into how Australia prepares for and executes major activities.

As Exercise Pitch Black 2024 unfolds, it is set to provide significant benefits to all participating nations. For the IAF, it is a chance to showcase its prowess and collaborate with international partners. For the RAAF, it reinforces the importance of international engagement and the development of strong aviation partnerships.
 
The exercise embodies the spirit of cooperation and mutual support, essential for maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. As the skies over Darwin and other RAAF bases in Australia come alive with the roar of fighter jets and the precision of military manoeuvres, Exercise Pitch Black 2024 stands as a testament to the enduring value of multinational military collaboration.