The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is gearing up for a significant display of its aerial prowess at Exercise Pitch Black 2024, a major biennial air combat exercise hosted by Australia. Kicking off on July 12th, 2024, at Darwin Air Base, the event will see the RMAF participate alongside forces from 19 other nations, making it the largest edition in the exercise's 43-year history.
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This year marks the RMAF's fourth participation in Ex Pitch Black. Previously, they deployed personnel in 2008, 2018, and 2022, with the latter being limited to personnel only. However, 2024 brings a more substantial contingent. A team of 37 officers and 66 enlisted personnel will be joined by three F/A-18D Hornet fighter jets and a vital A400M transport aircraft. Colonel Hasfa Nyzam bin Abdul Hamid RMAF will lead the delegation, showcasing the RMAF's commitment to international collaboration and strategic partnerships.
The focus of Ex Pitch Black lies in large-force employment missions, simulating complex scenarios encountered in modern air combat environments. The RMAF contingent can expect to be heavily involved in a variety of challenging exercises. These include honing basic fighter maneuvers (BFM), practicing Air Combat Tactics with a focus on Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat, and participating in a Large Force Employment Phase. This phase integrates all fighter assets, Multi-Role Transport Tankers (MRTTs), and Command and Control (C2) for intricately coordinated air operations. Air-to-air refueling drills will be another key component, allowing the RMAF to showcase its proficiency in mid-air refueling techniques, crucial for extending the range and endurance of fighter jets.
Participating in Ex Pitch Black 2024 offers a multitude of benefits for the RMAF. The exercise provides a valuable platform for personnel to gain invaluable experience in operating alongside international forces. It allows them to refine their combat skills, test their capabilities in a realistic setting, and learn from the expertise of other nations. The deployment also strengthens international ties and fosters valuable military-to-military cooperation. The Royal Malaysian Air Force's presence at Ex Pitch Black 2024 underscores its commitment to regional security and its dedication to continuous improvement. The experience gained will undoubtedly contribute to enhancing the RMAF's operational readiness and ensure it remains a formidable force in the years to come.