Pilatus sells 22 training aircraft to the French Air and Space Force

The aircraft manufacturer Pilatus based in the Swiss canton of Nidwalden has concluded a contract for delivery to the French Air and Space Force. According to an announcement, Pilatus will supply 22 PC-7 MKX training aircraft in collaboration with its contract partner, Babcock France. Furthermore, the company from Nidwalden will provide the French partners with ground-based training systems such as simulators, computer-based training, and equipment for mission planning and debriefing systems. The PC-7 MKX aircraft will be used to provide pilots with basic military training. Delivery is anticipated to take place in 2027.

The Pilatus PC-7 MKX platform has a new cockpit design based on the Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics system and is also fitted with a head-up display according to the announcement. Pilatus’ knowledge in the field of pilot training gained over many years of activity means that this avionics system provides a good training experience even in early teaching phases. The systems are compatible with those of the PC-21, which was delivered by Pilatus previously.

Ioannis Papachristofilou, VP Government Aviation at Pilatus, commented in the announcement: “The French Air and Space Force and the Royal Netherlands Air Force will be the first two operators introducing the new PC-7 MKX into service. We are looking forward to working closely with Babcock France in the delivery and operation of the new training system, and we aim to achieve the same level of success as for the PC-21.” ce/ww