The Indian Air Force is actively participating in Exercise Pitch Black 2026, a major multinational air combat exercise hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force in Australia.

The Indian contingent includes four Rafale fighter jets, two C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft and more than 120 Air Warriors.

The exercise brings together air forces from around 20 nations, with more than 100 aircraft involved in complex and realistic combat training scenarios.

The drills are being conducted across northern Australia, with a strong focus on night flying, interoperability and large-scale multinational air operations.

The exercise aims to sharpen combat skills, strengthen cooperation and enhance the ability of participating air forces to operate together.

India’s participation also highlights its growing defence cooperation with Australia and other partners across the Indo-Pacific region.