Exercise Pitch Black is one of the biggest military exercises in the southern hemisphere

The Indian Air Force contingent for Exercise Pitch Black 22 in Australia has returned after successful participation in the multinational exercise.

Exercise Pitch Black 22 was hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force at its Darwin Air Base. Held over a duration of three weeks, the exercise saw the participation of 17 Air Forces and over 2500 military personnel.

The IAF contingent included four Su-30 MKI & two C-17 aircraft. The participating forces took part in various multi-aircraft combat drills by day & night, simulating complex aerial scenarios, involving large formations, the Ministry of Defence said on Tuesday.

"The exercise provided an opportunity for the air forces to share best practices and experiences. The event witnessed a collaborative spirit that has led to a better understanding of each other's capabilities & a bonhomie that will lead to enduring ties between the participating nations," the ministry said.

Exercise Pitch Black, which began on August 19, is one of the biggest military exercises in the southern hemisphere.

Besides Australia and India, the participating contingents included those from US, UK, France, Germany, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, Canada, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Thailand, and UAE.

In the first phase of Ex Pitch Black 22, the IAF team took part in multiple missions with the participating Air Forces.

In the next phase, IAF aircraft flew by day & night and simulated complex aerial combat scenarios alongside multiple aircraft of other nations.