Exercise Pitch Black returns to the top end

Exercise Pitch Black will once again return to the Top End this year, with Australian and international military aircraft training over the Northern Territory from 19 August until 8 September. This exercise is the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) most significant International Engagement activity, with forces participating from a wide range of partner and allied nations, with the aim of developing and enhancing military relationships at all levels.

This year, up to 15 nations from around the globe will participate. Air Commander Australia, Air Vice-Marshal (AVM) Darren Goldie said exercises such as Pitch Black were pivotal in strengthening our regional partnerships and improving interoperability between nations.

“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 will also be included in the exercise this year.

Activities like this, recognise Australia’s strong relationships and the high value we place on regional security and fostering closer ties throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

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

Media note

Media are invited to submit expressions of interest to participate in Pitch Black media opportunities. More information is available at airforce.gov.au/PB22

Imagery and vision can be accessed at:

Stills: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20221581

Vision: V20221581 Exercise Pitch Black 22