Focusing on Indo-Pacific Security: 20 Countries Participate in Australia's "Pitch Black" Military Exercise | WPN World People News

The multinational joint military exercise "Pitch Black," held every two years, is taking place from July 12 to August 2, setting a new record for scale with participation from 20 countries. Approximately 4,400 air force personnel and over 140 fighter jets are involved, and for the first time, an aircraft carrier is participating.

The exercise is hosted by Australia and conducted at RAAF Base Darwin, RAAF Base Tindal in Northern Australia, and Amberley Air Force Base in Queensland. Participating countries include the USA, UK, Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, India, South Korea, Indonesia, and Malaysia, with Italy, Spain, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea participating for the first time.

The participating aircraft include France's Rafale jets, Germany's EFA jets, the UK's EFA Typhoon jets, Spain's EFA jets, and the USA's F-22A stealth jets. Italy has deployed F-35A stealth jets, EFA jets, Navy F-35B stealth jets, and AV-8B attack jets.
The Philippines is sending jets overseas for the first time since 1963, deploying four FA-50 fighter jets and 162 personnel. India has deployed Su-30MKI jets, C-17 transport aircraft, an Il-78 tanker, and a team of 150 personnel.

Indonesia and Malaysia have deployed F-16A/B and F-16C/D jets and F/A-18D two-seat jets, respectively. Thailand and Singapore have deployed JAS39C/D Gripen jets and F-16C/D and F-15SG jets, respectively. Japan and South Korea have deployed F-2A/B jets and F-15K two-seat jets. As the host nation, Australia has deployed F-35A stealth jets, F/A-18F two-seat jets, and EA-18G electronic warfare jets.

The commander of the exercise, RAAF Brigadier General Peter Robinson, stated that the exercise provides the capability for participating nations to operate jointly, validating their shared commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability.