PAF contingent in Australia for 'Pitch Black' drills

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 8, 2024): PAF contingent in Australia for 'Pitch Black' drills (By Priam Nepomuceno)

READY FOR 'PITCH BLACK'. A C-295 aircraft of the Philippine Air Force carrying essential equipment and operational cargo arrives at the Royal Australia Air Force Base in Darwin, Australia on Sunday (July 7, 2024). The PAF's contingent will participate in the "Pitch Black" exercises, and will incorporate various tactical flying and large-scale operational collective training activities. (Photo courtesy of PAF)

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has deployed an initial contingent to participate in the "Pitch Black" exercises hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) scheduled from July 12 to Aug. 2.

In a statement Monday, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the contingent as well as "essential equipment and operational cargo" arrived in Australia's northern city of Darwin on Sunday.

"The PAF contingent was ferried from the Philippines to Darwin via the RAAF KC-30 aircraft. The crucial equipment and operational cargo were transported by the RAAF C-130 and PAF C-295 aircraft, ensuring the seamless arrival of all necessary assets for the exercise. The main contingent will fly to Darwin a few days from now, prior to the official start of the exercise," she added.

"Pitch Black 2024" is a major biennial Australian and international military exercise, renowned for its large-scale, multinational large force employment. This year, it features participation from 20 nations, including the Philippines.

The three-week exercise will incorporate various tactical flying and large-scale operational collective training activities.

"The exercise will emphasize Offensive Counter Air and Air Interdiction operations in a multi-national coalition environment," Castillo said.

A notable highlight of this year’s exercise is the participation of PAF FA-50 fighter jets.

Castillo said this marks the first time the Philippines would deploy air assets to participate in an international exercise outside of the country, making it a monumental event in the history of the PAF.

"The participation of the Philippine Air Force in Exercise Pitch Black 2024 is a pivotal opportunity to enhance our operational capabilities, strengthen international partnerships, and reinforce our commitment to regional security and stability. Our involvement in this exercise is crucial to advancing our readiness, interoperability, and professionalism as an Air Force," she added.

Castillo said the PAF contingent is prepared to engage in various tactical and strategic operations, contributing to the overall success of "Pitch Black".

She added that the experience gained from this exercise would further the PAF's mission of ensuring the defense and security of the nation and contributing to regional peace and security.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228472