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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.
