The German Air Force, also known as the Luftwaffe, is set to make its debut appearance in Exercise Pitch Black, a significant military exercise. This marks an exciting development as part of the Rapid Pacific deployment initiative, with the Luftwaffe scheduled to arrive in Australia in mid-August. Their contingent will comprise more than 200 personnel, featuring six Eurofighter Typhoon Fighters, three A330 Multi-role Tanker Transports, and an A400M transport aircraft.
The inclusion of the German Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon Fighters in Exercise Pitch Black underscores their pivotal role in safeguarding European and NATO airspace, including their quick reaction alert responsibilities in Estonia. Additionally, they collaborate closely with the Italian and UK air forces in Romania, further strengthening the transatlantic alliance.
Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz, Chief of the German Air Force, expressed the significance of this joint training endeavor, stating, “This is the first time the German and Australian air forces have trained together. The Indo-Pacific region holds great importance for Germany, as we share common values with many partners here. Being prepared to defend these values in the event of a wartime emergency and offering support to our partners are essential skills that must be honed. Furthermore, the introduction of F-35 aircraft into our arsenal will enhance our capabilities significantly. Since the Royal Australian Air Force already operates this combat aircraft, there is much we can learn from them.”
The German Eurofighter is a versatile aircraft employed in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat scenarios, capable of engaging targets at varying ranges. Recently, the German government approved the procurement of F-35 aircraft to replace the aging Tornado weapon system. Exercise Pitch Black presents a valuable opportunity for Germany to integrate more closely with Australia’s F-35A capabilities.
Following their participation in Exercise Pitch Black, the Luftwaffe will join Exercise Kakadu before continuing their Rapid Pacific deployment, which includes stops in Japan and the Republic of Korea. Lieutenant General Gerhartz will personally pilot a Eurofighter during both Pitch Black and Kakadu exercises, extending his journey to Japan after these training sessions conclude.
The Eurofighter Typhoon stands as a remarkable European multinational aircraft, characterized by its twin-engine design, canard delta wing, and multirole capabilities. Originally conceived as an air superiority fighter, the Eurofighter Typhoon is manufactured by a consortium comprising Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, operating through a joint holding company known as Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH.
The NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency, representing the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain, oversee this project and serve as the primary customer. The Eurofighter Typhoon is renowned for its high agility, designed to excel in dogfight scenarios. Over time, production aircraft have been continually enhanced to undertake air-to-surface strike missions and accommodate an expanding array of armaments.
As the German Air Force collaborates with international partners in Exercise Pitch Black, this initiative not only enhances their operational readiness but also strengthens the bonds of cooperation and mutual learning among allied forces in the Indo-Pacific region. This historic participation underscores the commitment of Germany and its allies to maintaining peace and security in a dynamic and strategically vital part of the world.
