Indian Su-30 MKIs join US F-22 Raptors and global fighters in Australia Exercise Pitch Black 2024

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is showcasing its Su-30 MKI fighters alongside F-35s, F-22s, F-18s, F-15s, Gripen, and Typhoon aircraft at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base in Darwin for the multi-national exercise Pitch Black 2024.

This exercise, running from July 12 to August 2, is part of ‘Exercise Pacific Skies 24’ and underscores the importance of collaboration and mutual respect throughout the Indo-Pacific region and globally, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The U.S. Air Force has also sent six F-22 Raptors from the 27th Fighter Squadron at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. Notably, this marks the first time F-22s are participating in the exercise drills.

Exercise Pitch Black has a rich history dating back to its inaugural edition at RAAF Base Darwin in 1983, featuring RAAF Mirage III fighters and F-111C strike jets with U.S. participation. Since then, it has evolved into the Air Force’s premier biennial flying joint-operations exercise, demonstrating global cooperation and focusing on large-force employment missions.

This year, Exercise Pitch Black involves approximately 140 aircraft and 4,400 military personnel from 20 nations, making it the largest in its 43-year history. The exercise is primarily conducted from RAAF Base Darwin, RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory, and RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland. Air Commodore Peter Robinson leads this edition, emphasizing the Air Force's role in contributing to regional stability through multilateral defence partnerships.

The exercise aims to enhance international cooperation, understand potential threats, and improve regional efficiency and security. It presents an opportunity for participating nations to improve their ability to deploy over long distances, facilitate coordinated operations in the Indo-Pacific region, and foster strong aviation partnerships. Missions are characterized by meticulous planning and coordination among numerous Australian and international aircrew and support personnel.

The IAF’s participation is significant, with over 150 Air Warriors operating Su-30 MKIs, C-17 Globemasters, and IL-78 Air-to-Air Refueling aircraft. The exercise allows the IAF to integrate its forces, share best practices, and build confidence and respect with other nations.

For the first time, aircraft from the Philippines, Italy, Papua New Guinea, and Spain, as well as teams from Brunei and Fiji, are participating. The Philippine Air Force's involvement marks the first time it has deployed air assets to an international exercise outside its country.

Exercise Pitch Black 2024 offers all participating nations valuable experience in deploying over great distances and integrating their operations towards common strategic goals. The IAF’s involvement highlights its commitment to regional and global security and its ability to collaborate effectively with various air forces.