PAF sends over 200 personnel, FA-50s to Australia's 'Pitch Black'
The Philippine Air Force has deployed over 200 personnel and FA-50 fighter jets to Australia to participate in the multinational Exercise Pitch Black 2026. The training aims to improve operational readiness and interoperability with 21 partner nations.
Why it matters
Increased military cooperation between the Philippines and international partners reflects growing regional defense efforts in the Indo-Pacific.
Manila Bulletin - PAF sends over 200 personnel, FA-50s to Australia’s ‘Pitch Black’
PAF sends over 200 personnel, FA-50s to Australia's 'Pitch Black'
More than 200 Philippine Air Force personnel, backed by FA-50 fighter jets and a C-130 transport aircraft, are taking part in Exercise Pitch Black 2026 in Australia from July 17 to Aug. 7 alongside air forces from 21 partner nations.
The first batch of 98 PAF personnel arrived in Darwin on July 10. The PAF is returning after its successful debut in Pitch Black 2024.
The exercise will focus on multinational air combat training, including counter-air operations, to enhance the PAF's operational readiness, interoperability with allied air forces, and regional defense cooperation.
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