New Delhi, 23 August (H.S.):

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully concluded its participation in two major international air exercises — Exercise Pitch Black in Australia and Exercise Udara Shakti in Malaysia. The exercises highlighted the IAF’s operational capabilities, enhanced tactical coordination and commitment to strengthening strategic defence partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region.

Hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), Exercise Pitch Black saw the Indian Air Force deploy its frontline Rafale fighter aircraft alongside air forces from more than 20 countries. Conducted in a high-threat, multi-domain operational environment, the exercise involved complex Large Force Employment (LFE) missions. It provided participating forces with an opportunity to enhance interoperability, exchange operational experience and strengthen their ability to conduct joint operations effectively.

Following the conclusion of its deployment in Australia, the Indian contingent travelled directly to Subang in Malaysia to participate in Exercise Udara Shakti. Indian air warriors trained alongside the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), taking part in high-intensity aerial combat operations and joint tactical manoeuvres involving Su-30MKI and F/A-18 Hornet aircraft. The bilateral exercise focused on enhancing aerial warfare tactics, facilitating the exchange of expertise and experience, and improving joint operational capabilities.

The joint activities during both exercises extended beyond cockpit operations to include maintenance procedures, mission-planning exchanges and cultural interactions. These engagements further strengthened professional ties, mutual understanding and camaraderie among personnel from different ranks of the participating forces.

The Indian Air Force continues to engage in joint training activities with international defence partners to contribute to regional stability, enhance interoperability and advance collective security initiatives. The successful participation in Pitch Black and Udara Shakti reflects India’s continued commitment to deepening defence cooperation and strengthening partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar