The cultural connection between traditional custodians of the Northern Territory and the Air Force was highlighted last week during a mass air brief which saw the unveiling of the official artwork for Exercise Pitch Black.

Created by Katherine-based Gurindji artist Kamahi King, this piece showcases the cultural connections between the Air Force and traditional custodians of Larrakia Country, as well as the Jawoyn, Wardaman and Dagoman peoples of the Katherine region.

Featuring vibrant depictions of a golden kangaroo, vivid red gorges and a vast blue sky, Mr King's painting draws on the cultural heritage of the Northern Territory, reflecting its ancestral stories, Country, animals and the people who have cared for it for generations.

Mr King said similar to Pitch Black, the artwork represents diverse forces coming together beneath the expansive Australian sky.

"The painting symbolises the joining of the desert and the river. It is two nations coming together," Mr King said.

"The gold kangaroo shows its significance both to my people and the Air Force."

The artwork's colours and patterns represent animals and locations which are significant to the Katherine region.

"The blue sky and river form the belly of a crocodile, while the pattern on the gorge represents the desert," Mr King said.

Defence said the unveiling and presentation of the artwork highlights the important role Indigenous perspectives play in its activities.

A high-quality reproduction of the artwork will be presented to each of the 19 participating nations as a symbol of friendship and a shared commitment to regional security.

The original artwork will remain in the Northern Territory as a lasting legacy of Pitch Black.