Manila: The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has deployed "two elements of FA-50 (fighter jets) and a C-130" in this year's iteration of the biennial "Pitch Black" air combat exercise in Northern Australia, set from July 17 to Aug. 7. An element refers to a military air formation consisting of one lead and one trail aircraft.

According to Philippines News Agency, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco informed journalists that the aircraft were accompanied by more than 200 PAF personnel. This contingent includes pilots, technicians, and air battle controllers who will oversee parts of the exercise. Basco described Pitch Black as "the Royal Australian Air Force's premier biennial multinational air combat exercise."

"Bringing together air forces from 21 partner nations, the exercise provides a valuable platform for enhancing interoperability, strengthening operational readiness, and deepening defense cooperation through complex tactical flying missions and integrated multinational training," Basco explained. The PAF contingent departed from Floridablanca, Pampanga on July 6 after a send-off ceremony led by Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura.

During the ceremonies, Basco noted that the Air Force chief emphasized the "importance of professionalism, discipline, and mission readiness" among PAF personnel who will represent the Philippines in one of the Indo-Pacific Region's largest multinational air combat exercises.

Basco added, "The PAF participation in Exercise Pitch Black 2026 reflects its continuing commitment to building a credible, agile, and multi-domain air force by enhancing operational capabilities, strengthening interoperability with allied and partner air forces, and contributing to the Armed Forces of the Philippines' broader objective of promoting regional security, stability, and a rules-based international order."