Exercise Pitch Black gears up for July start

written by Bethany Alvaro | June 16, 2026

A Royal Australian Air Force EA-18G Growler departs RAAF Base Darwin for a night flying mission as part of Exercise Pitch Black 24. (Image: SGT Rodney Welch)

Exercise Pitch Black is returning to the Northern Territory next month and will see multinational efforts to engage in regional activities and engagements.

The Royal Australian Air Force’s biggest exercise is set to take place in the Top End, seeing 19 allied nations joining the three-week effort involving combat scenario exercises, regional support and interoperability.

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Pitch Black 26 Exercise Commander, Air Commodore Matt McCormack, said this year’s rendition of the exercise is “vital for the preparedness and collective security”.

“By training together in complex scenarios, we enhance our shared preparedness and ability to operate together while also demonstrating our collective commitment to maintaining regional stability and security.”

This exercise also offers local community members an opportunity to engage with the work of the RAAF, with dedicated community open days at RAAF Darwin for visitors to get up close and personal with military equipment.

 
 

A flyover will also occur, further allowing for community engagement with RAAF aircraft.

“The Pitch Black Flying Display and the RAAF Darwin Open Day have been fixtures on the exercise calendar since 2012 and allow exercise participants to thank the community while showcasing an impressive selection of military capability,” said Air Commodore Micka Gray, head of air shows for the RAAF.

“These events are fantastic opportunities for Northern Territory families, visitors and aviation enthusiasts to meet highly skilled aviators and see some incredible aircraft up close.”

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