Exercise Pitch Black returns to the Top End

Australian and international military aircraft will once again return to the Northern Territory skies for Exercise Pitch Black from August 19 to September 8.

CAPTION: F-35A Lightning II aircraft in the ordnance loading area at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo by Adam Abela.

Around 15 international partner air forces will combine with the Royal Australian Air Force to develop and enhance military relationships at all levels.

The exercise will include day and night flying involving approximately 100 participating aircraft.

Air Commander Australia Air Vice-Marshal Darren Goldie said that exercises such as Pitch Black are pivotal in strengthening our regional partnerships and improving interoperability between nations.

“Exercise Pitch Black is returning to the Top End after a break due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Air Commodore Goldie said.

“We are pleased that we are able to conduct the exercise this year and would like to thank the Northern Territory community for their interest and tremendous support.

“Exercises such as Pitch Black provide important training opportunities in a multi-nation coalition environment and are important for ensuring Air Force remains ready to respond whenever the Australian Government requires.”

Exercise Pitch Black is a biennial three-week multi-national large force employment exercise conducted primarily from RAAF Base Darwin and RAAF Base Tindal. RAAF Base Amberley, located near Ipswich, will also be included in the exercise this year.

Activities such as Exercise Pitch Black recognise Australia’s strong relationships and the high value we place on regional security and fostering closer ties throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

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