Exercise Pitch Black is taking shape right now in the Top End and while the latest arrivals are already flying to get familiarisation of the Local Area Sid Mitchell has got straight into the action and it’s only going to get better.
RSAF G550/IAI Phalcon CAEW “Jaeger” of 111Sqn
What: Night familiarisation flying in preparation of Exercise Pitch Black
When: Monday 25 July – Wednesday 27 July 2016
Where: RAAF Base Darwin and surrounding airspace
RSAF F-16C of 143Sqn “Pheonix” (yellow chequered tail flash)
International forces take to the skies this week in preparation for Exercise Pitch Black 2016. Flying activities will commence from 8.30am and cease by 9.00pm, Monday 25 July until Wednesday 27 July.
USAF KC-135R Stratotanker from 186th Air Refuelling Wing, Mississippi
Night flying represents an important opportunity for visiting aircrew to practice air traffic control procedures and familiarise themselves with Northern Territory airspace, for the safe conduct of flying during Exercise Pitch Black.
F/A-18C of VMFA-122 “Werewolves”
Exercise Pitch Black 2016 is the Air Force’s largest training activity this year. It will be conducted in the Northern Territory from Friday 29 July to Friday 19 August.
USAF F-16C of 14th Tactical Fighter Sqn,”Samurai’s”
The Royal Australian Air Force is proud to host up to 115 aircraft and 2500 people who have come together for Exercise Pitch Black 2016.
RAAF KC-30A – refueller for USAF F-16 aircraft in transit from Japan to Darwin
The Northern Territory welcomes exercise participants from Australia, Canada, Indonesia, France (New Caledonia), Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand and the United States of America.
RSAF C-130H 733 of 122 Sqn, Paya Lebar, Singapore
Exercise Pitch Black recognises the strong relationship Australia has with each of the nations participating in the exercise and the high value placed on regional stability and fostering closer ties throughout the Asia Pacific region.
ASO will be covering every week of Exercise Pitch Black 2016 so to keep up to date with the latest information and images subscribe to via the link below .
