The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has returned to Exercise Pitch Black with the PAC-750 delivering tactical airlift in the Royal Australian Air Force’s premier international air combat activity.
Participating for the second time, the PNGDF has deployed a dedicated team of aircrew and support personnel, building stronger regional ties through one of the largest and most complex air combat exercises in the Indo-Pacific.
The deployment has enabled PNGDF personnel to engage more broadly across the exercise, working alongside counterparts from 20 participating nations both in the air and on the ground, and providing a vital airbridge across the exercise.
Through these interactions, the contingent is enhancing its understanding of multinational operations while fostering the professional relationships that contribute to regional security and cooperation.
Lieutenant Colonel Doug Vavar, Commanding Officer of the PNGDF Air Transport Wing, said he was eager to be a part of the exercise and emphasised that integration remains his key focus.
“When we first participated in 2024, our contingent consisted of aircrew and maintainers,” Lieutenant Colonel Vavar said.
“This year we have brought additional support staff who will help strengthen our integration with partner nations throughout Pitch Black 2026.”
The PNGDF has deployed two PAC-750 aircraft, versatile single-engine platforms that fill a niche transportation role within the exercise.
Renowned for their ability to operate in challenging and remote environments, the aircraft support the movement of personnel and equipment, providing a unique capability among the diverse range of aircraft taking part in Exercise Pitch Black.
“The PAC-750 gives us the ability to conduct short take-offs and landings, allowing us to deliver aid and support to communities and provinces that may otherwise be difficult to access,” Lieutenant Colonel Vavar said.
The exercise has also enabled closer collaboration between the PNGDF and RAAF personnel, with members working side by side across flying, maintenance and operational roles.
These opportunities allow both forces to share expertise, develop a deeper understanding of each other’s capabilities and strengthen the enduring partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
