The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Rafale fighter jet has made its debut appearance at Exercise Pitch Black 26, marking a historic first for the aircraft in Australia’s premier multinational air combat exercise. During the exercise, the Rafale, India’s most advanced multirole fighter, took part in high-tempo, low-visibility training scenarios, giving the Indian Air Force a rare chance to test the aircraft’s capabilities alongside a wide range of international partners. The Rafale’s appearance at Pitch Black underscored both the aircraft’s versatility and the IAF’s expanding capacity to take part in complex multinational operations. Kumar also thanked the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) for its role in hosting the exercise. Exercise Pitch Black 26 wraps upThe Rafale’s debut came as this year’s Exercise Pitch Black concluded on August 7, 2026, with a closing ceremony bringing together personnel from every participating nation.