Bhawana Kanth makes history as IAF participates in EX-Pitch Black

The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent has landed at the Darwin air base of the Royal Australian Air Force to participate in the biennial  Pitch Black exercise. In a first, Bhawana Kanth who was the first female pilot of the IAF to fly Su-30MKI fighters planes is also participating in the exercise Pitch Black.

Host and History of the Pitch Black exercise 

The Pitch Black exercise is a multinational air exercise organised by the Royal Australian Air Force. 

Initially, the exercise used to take place at night in the vast uninhabited territory of Northern Australia; hence, the word Pitch Black was used. However, it does not mean the military exercise is conducted only on a moonless night. 

History 

• It was started in 1981, and the 43rd edition of the exercise is being held in 2024.
• The 43rd edition will be held from 12 July to 2 August 2024, and over 140 aircraft from 20 countries' Air Forces will participate in the exercise.
• The 43rd edition exercise will take place at the Darwin and Tindal base of the Royal Australian Air Force in Australia’s Northern Territory. However, the Amberley Base of the Royal Australian Air Force, located near Ipswich in Queensland state, will also be used. 

Indian Participation   

• The Indian Air Force has regularly participated in the Pitch Black exercise. 
• This year, the IAF is sending its frontline fighter aircraft, the Su-30MKI, the C-17 Globemaster transport plane, and the IL-78 Air-to-Air Refuelling aircraft.
• The Indian contingents include 150 highly trained pilots, engineers, technicians, controllers, and other support staff.

Benefits of the Pitch Black Exercise 

• The exercise will help the IAF in gaining experience in long-distance deployment as the distance to Australia is great.
• It will help the IAF gain experience in deployment to the Indo-Pacific region and work in tandem with other friendly air forces.
• India is a member of the Quad group, which includes Australia, the United States, and Japan. The Quad is focused on maintaining security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
• It will help IAF pilots build strong relationships with other pilots around the world, which will help the Indian government improve its defence ties with these countries.