Indonesian and Australian Air Force Chiefs Conduct Joint Flight Over Darwin

The military air chiefs of Indonesia and Australia flew in a joint formation over Darwin, Australia, on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. This demonstration of defense cooperation occurred during the ongoing Exercise Pitch Black 2026.

Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff Air Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono participated as a passenger in a TNI AU T-50i Golden Eagle fighter jet. He flew alongside Royal Australian Air Force Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, who was in an RAAF F/A-18 Hornet. Defense officials confirmed the flight proceeded safely and without incident.

Air Marshal Tonny described the joint flight as a simple yet profoundly meaningful symbol of the strong relationship and operational trust between the two air forces. He stated that the exercise underscores a shared commitment to regional stability and strategic interoperability within the Indo-Pacific.

Exercise Pitch Black 2026 is a large-scale, multinational air combat training event hosted by Australia from July 20 to August 7. The biennial drills bring together approximately 20 nations, fostering collaboration and enhancing tactical capabilities among allied air forces. Indonesia's participation includes four T-50i Golden Eagle jets and one C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, engaging in various tactical scenarios.

“

Formation flight is a simple symbol that holds profound meaning for the relationship between the two air forces.