Belgian Air Force turns to Pilatus for new training system

The Belgian government has agreed a long-term training contract with Pilatus, the aircraft manufacturer based in Stans in the Swiss canton of Nidwalden. For the basic training of military pilots, the Belgian Air Force will now make use of an 18-strong fleet of PC-7 MKX aircraft, as detailed in a press release issued by Pilatus. In addition to this, an integrated ground-based training system will also be deployed. The contract has been agreed for a period of 20 years, with delivery of the first machines planned for 2027.

To ensure seamless training progress from the classroom to the cockpit, Pilatus will provide state-of-the-art simulators and computer-based training platforms, as well as mission planning and debriefing systems for use at the training complex. Moreover, together with Sabena Engineering and AG Real Estate, the Nidwalden-based company will modernize the facilities at the Bevekom/Beauvechain Air Force Base and assume responsibility for maintenance activities during the next two decades.

“We are proud to welcome Belgian Defense as a new Pilatus customer and the third European air force to select the PC-7 MKX”, as Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, comments in the press release. “This milestone reinforces the trust placed in our training systems and highlights our commitment to supporting air forces globally with state-of-the-art solutions”, he adds. Pilatus had previously reached agreements for training services with the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force as well as the French Air and Space Force. Training of Belgian pilots is scheduled to begin in 2028. ce/ww