British Air Force Tanker Performs Midair Refuelling During Global Air Drill

Video shows a British Air Force Voyager tanker aircraft carrying out air-to-air refuelling operations during Exercise Pitch Black 2026, the Royal Australian Air Force’s premier multinational air combat exercise.

The British aircraft is providing air-to-air refuelling support, extending the range and endurance of allied aircraft operating across the vast distances of northern Australia.

Exercise Pitch Black brings together 21 nations, up to 100 aircraft, and around 2,500 personnel, making it one of the largest and most complex air exercises in the Indo-Pacific region.

Alongside the Voyager aircraft, British personnel from intelligence, logistics, movements, refuelling, police, medical, and planning roles are working with international partners to support the demanding flying programme.

The exercise is designed to strengthen cooperation between allied and partner air forces by allowing nations to rehearse complex air operations in a realistic environment.

The United Kingdom is one of 20 partner nations participating alongside Australia during this year’s exercise, with aircraft including fighter jets, airborne early warning platforms, transport aircraft, and tanker aircraft from around the world.