The Australian Ministry of Defence announced in a statement that the Royal Australian Air Force will organize the Pitch Black 2026 air exercises in northern Australia from July 20 to August 7, with the participation of about 100 aircraft and more than 2,500 military personnel from 20 countries. The drills will be held at Darwin, Tindal, and Amberley bases, and will see for the first time the participation of Japanese F-35 Lightning II fighters and Indonesian T-50I Golden Eagle aircraft, along with air forces from several countries including the United States, India, Singapore, South Korea, and France. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the maneuvers aim to enhance cooperation and integration between Australia and its partners and allies, and to raise force readiness through advanced air exercises.