News Excerpt:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced that its Su-30 MKI fighter jets will take part in a major biennial multinational aerial warfare exercise in Australia, starting later this month.
About Exercise Pitch Black 24:
- The event, known as 'Exercise Pitch Black 24,' will run from July 12 to August 2 and is set to be the largest edition in its history, with participation from 20 countries.
- Held every two years since 1998, it focuses on large-force employment missions involving large numbers of international aircraft.
- It was first held in New South Wales in June 1981 as a three-day air defense exercise.
- The name ‘Pitch Black’ is believed to be derived from the emphasis on night-time flying over large unpopulated areas during these early exercises.
- According to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), this year's exercise will be the biggest in its 43-year history.
- The event will bring together 20 nations and over 140 aircraft from around the world, with approximately 4,435 personnel participating.
Exercise Udara Shakti 24:
- Upon returning, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will also participate in 'Exercise Udara Shakti 24' with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) from August 5 to 9 in Kuantan, Malaysia.
- Malaysia will be fielding their top-of-the-line Su-30MKM fighter jets for the exercises.
- The participation of Su-30MKM from Malaysia and Su-30MKI aircraft from India, variants of the same Flanker design, facilitates compatibility and streamlines joint training exercises.
- This similarity makes for easier training and some seriously dynamic combat scenarios.
