Every two years, the RAAF hosts an international air exercise in the Northern Territory. For 2026, Pitch Black takes place from July 20 to August 7. Indonesia is one of the 21 countries participating in this exercise. What is the objective of Exercise Pitch Black, and how is it conducted?
Wing Commander Steve O’Hara serves as the country Liaison Officer for Indonesia. He outlined the objectives and execution of the exercise, noting that the diverse aircraft types and varying personnel skill levels across the participating nations were all factored into the planning and subsequent execution phases.
This approach ensured that every aspect of the exercise offered value to each participating country. The joint exercise provided an opportunity for mutual acquaintance and learning, ultimately fostering effective cooperation.
What about the Indonesian squadrons involved? Wing Commander Steve O’Hara explains all of that and other related matters in this interview.





