Philippine Air Force Join Australia-Led Multilateral Exercise

Credits:INQUIRER.NET

For the first time, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) is deploying its light fighters overseas to participate in the Australia-led multilateral exercise, Exercise Pitch Black 2024, set to begin later this week.

Running from July 12 to August 2 in Darwin, Australia, Exercise Pitch Black 2024 is the largest iteration in its 43-year history, featuring 20 nations, over 140 aircraft, and approximately 4,435 personnel.

PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo announced that the PAF would send four FA-50 light fighters, currently serving as the interim aircraft while the Philippines prepares to acquire multi-role fighters. “This marks the first time the Philippines will deploy air assets to participate in an international exercise outside of the country, making it a monumental event in the history of the Philippine Air Force,” Castillo said in a statement.

The first batch of the PAF contingent arrived in Darwin on Sunday. PAF airmen were transported by Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) KC-30 aircraft, while their equipment was ferried by the RAAF C-130 and PAF C-295 aircraft, Castillo added.

The Philippines and Australia share four security agreements: the 1995 memorandum of understanding on cooperative defense activities; the 2012 Visiting Forces Agreement; the 2015 comprehensive partnership agreement; and the 2021 Mutual Logistics Agreement.

This year’s exercise will focus on offensive counter-air and air interdiction operations in a multinational coalition environment, according to Castillo.

The deployment signifies a significant milestone for the PAF, highlighting its commitment to enhancing international defense cooperation and operational readiness.

Related posts

Israel Demands Strike Hezbollah Ceasefire Talks

UK Sanctions Iran for Missile Transfers to Russia

North Korea Criticizes US Over Ukraine, Sends Troops to Russia