PAF's FA-50PH jets arrive in Australia for 'Pitch Black' exercise

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) said Wednesday night that four of its FA-50PH light jet fighters have landed in Darwin, Australia to take part in the "Pitch Black" air exercises from July 12 to Aug. 2.

In a statement, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the four FA-50PHs arrived with the C-130 tactical transport aircraft carrying the main body of the 162-strong Filipino contingent.

"The first batch of the contingent arrived on July 7, 2024, followed by the main body today (Wednesday) July 10, 2024 on board a PAF C-130 tactical transport aircraft," she added.

The FA-50PHs, capable of speeds of up to Mach 1.5, are the most capable and potent aircraft of the PAF.

About 12 units of the FA-50PHs were acquired from the Korea Aerospace Industries for P18.9 billion.

She added that the PAF contingent was greeted by "Pitch Black 2024" exercise director Air Commodore Pete Robinson upon their arrival at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base in Darwin, Australia.

"The PAF contingent will participate in PBK24 (Pitch Black 2024), which will run from July 12 to Aug 2, 2024 with 20 participating countries. This exercise is a historic event as it is the first time that the PAF has sent its aircraft overseas for an international exercise," Castillo said.

On July 8, PAF chief Lt. Gen. Stephen P. Parreño held a send-off ceremony for the contingent headed by Col. Randy M. Pascua, the deputy wing commander of the 5th Fighter Wing, in Basa Air Base, Floridablanca, Pampanga.

He added that the PAF's participation in the exercise is a testament to the years of dedication invested in developing operational capabilities and strengthening international partnerships.

"Pitch Black" is a biennial exercise conducted by the RAAF. (PNA)