Exercise Pitch Black returns to Australia’s top end with three weeks of intense flying set to take place over the Northern Territory from the 12th July to 2nd August. With 20 nations and approximately 140 aircraft, 2024 is set to be the largest iteration of the exercise its 43-year history.
With its roots originating back to a three-day air defence exercise at RAAF Base Williamtown in 1981, Exercise Pitch Black has grown immensely following its move to RAAF Base Darwin in 1983, with the United States Air Force being the first international participant.
As was the case in 2022, this year’s iteration of Exercise Pitch Black will mark a number of firsts. Four new nations will make their flying debut with the Philippines, Spain, Italy, and Papua New Guinea joining the lineup. Following an absence last time round, both Malaysia and Thailand are making their return to the flying lineup.
This year, three bases will host aircraft for exercise participants with the vast majority stationed at RAAF Base Darwin. A smaller contingent including RAAF F-35s and USAF F-22s will be located at RAAF Base Tindal, meanwhile a significant air-to-air refuelling and transport force will be found at RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland.
The first week of flying activity from the 15th to 18th of July will take place during the day from 7:00am to 7:00pm (extending to 7:30pm on the 18th). The following two weeks goes true ‘pitch black’ with flying activity extending through to 10:30pm with a later start of 8:00am.
As has historically been the case at Exercise Pitch Black, two community events will be on offer during the first week of the exercise.
A traditional event since 2012, the Mindil Beach Flying Display will take place on Thursday the 18th of July. Running from 5:00pm to 6:30pm, this free, non-ticketed event, will feature over 45 aircraft performing a series of flypasts and displays from all 16 flying nations. Highlights include hovering displays from the USMC MV-22 Osprey and Italian Navy AV-8B Harrier alongside a handling display from the RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornet.
Meanwhile on Saturday the 20th of July, members of the public will be able to visit RAAF Base Darwin to get up close with the aircraft and personnel behind Exercise Pitch Black during a free, ticketed open day. Gates will be open from 9:00am till 4:00pm, with a shuttle bus running to and from the Darwin Showgrounds. Over 30 aircraft will be on display alongside a variety of interactive exhibits and squadron merchandise available for purchase.
