Exercise Pitch Black takes off
Courtesy of the Department of Defence
The skies over the Top End have filled with aircraft from across the world for the return of Exercise Pitch Black.
From 19 August until 8 September, 16 nations are participating alongside Australia during Exercise Pitch Black in an effort to enhance interoperability and develop strong relationships between participating military forces.
This year more than 100 aircraft and 2,500 personnel from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, India, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, the US and the UK are taking part.
Significantly, Germany, Japan, and the Republic of Korea will be participating fully for the first time.
Exercise Pitch Black is held every two years.
The Exercise Commander, Air Commodore Tim Alsop said the return of Exercise Pitch Black marked an excellent opportunity to strengthen partnerships and to promote regional stability.
‘Pitch Black is a large force employment exercise, driven by fighter combat scenarios,’ he said. ‘This year, significant efforts have been made to advance the air-to-air refuelling capability between many of the participating nations.
‘Air-to-air refuelling is a force multiplier, providing essential reach to our combat aircraft. Working with many of the participating nations aims to increase our force projection and maximise our capability.
‘We would also like to thank the Northern Territory community for their continued support and interest in Exercise Pitch Black and to welcome all the international participants to the Top End.’
Forces are primarily based in RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal with supporting elements at RAAF Amberley. The exercise will include day and night flying and will be undertaken with consideration given to minimise the impact on the local community and the environment.
More information is on the RAAF website. You can also view images on the Defence Images website as well as this video.
