“Singapore’s First Female Exercise Director Leads Air Force at Exercise Pitch Black “

DARWIN, AUSTRALIA — Colonel Lee Mei Yi, 39, from the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), is breaking new ground as Singapore’s first female exercise director at Exercise Pitch Black (XPB) this year. Reflecting on her role, she emphasized, “It’s about being given the opportunity, rather than about gender.” Lee previously participated in XPB a decade ago as a young wingman and now returns with the responsibility of directing the entire RSAF contingent.

The biennial XPB, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force in Darwin, is in its largest year yet, with over 4,400 personnel and 140 aircraft from 20 nations, including Singapore’s contingent of more than 450 personnel. Singapore’s participation includes F-15SGs, F-16C/Ds, a G550 Airborne Early Warning aircraft, and the A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport.

This year’s XPB marks the first time in eight years that Singapore’s Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) is involved, including systems like the Spyder, Aster 30, and Shikra. Lee noted that the expansive Darwin airspace allows the RSAF to practice large-scale maneuvers with realistic terrain, providing invaluable experience as Singapore prepares for future F-35 operations. “This exercise will help sharpen our skills and deepen partnerships with other leading air forces,” she said.