Four Indonesia's T-50i fighters head to Australia for joint drills

Kupang, E. Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is deploying four T-50i Golden Eagle fighter jets to Australia for the multinational Pitch Black 2026 exercise, aiming to strengthen defense cooperation and enhance joint operational capabilities.

El Tari Air Base Commander Air Marshal Somad said the fighter jets would depart from the Kupang transit point for Australia on Thursday.

"The arrival of these fighter jets is part of the Pitch Black exercise in Australia. They will depart tomorrow," Somad said on Wednesday.

The Air Force is also deploying a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft to carry support personnel and logistics.

According to the Australian government, the biennial Pitch Black 2026 exercise will run from July 20 to Aug. 7, 2026.

Somad said Indonesia's participation aims to strengthen bilateral defense ties and improve interoperability with other participating air forces.

He added that Indonesian pilots will take part in advanced training, including complex fighter maneuvers and joint tactical operations with personnel from participating countries.

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Translator: Kornelis Kaha, Yashinta Difa

Editor: Rahmad Nasution

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