PAF's FA-50PH jets complete Pitch Black 'large force' drill

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 2, 2024): PAF's FA-50PH jets complete Pitch Black 'large force' drill (By Priam Nepomuceno)

'PITCH BLACK'. Two F-15 jet fighters of the Republic of Korea Air Force fly with a pair of PAF's FA-50PH light jet fighters in this year's Pitch Black exercise in Australia in this undated photo. The PAF said Friday (Aug. 2, 2024) that its FA-50PH light jet fighters have completed the "large force employment" simulation phase of the exercise. (Contributed photo)

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) said its FA-50PH light jet fighters have completed the "large force employment" (LFE) simulation phase of this year's "Pitch Black" exercises in Australia, along with other participating air forces.

"This two-week long LFE simulation phase is a crucial aspect of the exercise, emphasizing complex, large-scale missions that require seamless coordination and integration among the diverse capabilities and assets of participating air forces," PAF acting spokesperson Col. Rifiel Santiago Sotto said in a statement Thursday night.

The "Pitch Black" started in July and will formally close on Friday.

Sotto said LFE missions are designed to provide realistic and challenging scenarios, enhancing the interoperability and tactical skills of the participating nations.

"The PAF pilots were able to participate in different missions, such as air interdiction, suppression of enemy air defense, defensive counter-air and offensive counter-air in a Blue or Red Force role," he added.

He said the PAF's involvement in these missions not only demonstrates its operational capabilities but also strengthens Manila's commitment to international defense cooperation and regional security.

Meanwhile, PAF's "Pitch Black" contingent commander, Col. Randy Pascua, expressed pride in the Air Force's performance and highlighted the importance of such exercises in building stronger ties with allied nations.

"Participating in Pitch Black 2024 allows us to enhance our operational readiness and fosters camaraderie with our international counterparts. The experience and knowledge gained here are invaluable to our mission of maintaining peace and security in the region," he stated.

The PAF's contingent to "Pitch Black" consists of four FA-50PH light jet fighters and 162 highly trained personnel.

"Pitch Black" is a biennial exercise hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force that fosters multinational collaboration and training.

This year's exercise brought together 20 participating nations, over 140 aircraft, and approximately 4,435 personnel.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1230323