Netherlands becomes launch customer for Pilatus PC-7 MKX training system
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| Pilatus PC-7 MKX basic trainer aircraft. |
Swiss aircraft manufacturer Pilatus announced last week that Koninklijke Luchtmacht has become the first customer to opt for the PC-7 MKX. Pilatus highlighted how the new training system will provide the Royal Dutch Air Force with an integrated, cost-effective and state-of-the-art solution to meet its basic flight training needs for its military pilots. Delivery is scheduled for the first half of 2027.
Following a public invitation to tender issued by the Dutch procurement authority, “Material & IT Command” (COMMIT), Pilatus has been selected to supply eight PC-7 MKXs and associated ground training systems, including four simulators.
The new state-of-the-art PC-7 MKX training system will enable future crews of the Royal Dutch Air Force to acquire essential flight skills while preparing for advanced training phases. The integrated flight simulators will allow for a reduction in the number of aircraft, making training more cost-effective.
According to Pilatus, the package includes advanced virtual reality-based components that will significantly enhance immersion and engagement for both student pilots and instructors. The new solution incorporates interactive panels and virtual reality modules alongside conventional training tools, creating a more hands-on learning environment and further enhancing the basic pilot training experience.
A central component is Pilatus’ advanced Training Management System that includes mission planning and mission debriefing tools. While these capabilities have traditionally only been introduced in the later stages of flight instruction, they are now being implemented earlier in training. The PC-7 MKX system provides student pilots and instructors with access to operational information and performance analytics, improving situational awareness and accelerating learning, while easing the transition to more complex aircraft and mission profiles.
The Dutch Ministry of Defence states: “We have had a long and good relationship with Pilatus. With the contract signing for a state-of-the-art learning environment we are extending this partnership for another 30 years.”
Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, commented as follows: “We’re delighted to announce this contract for our new PC-7 MKX training system and we thank Holland for its decision! This marks the beginning of a new era of basic flight training in the Netherlands, which – I am sure – will set a new standard that other air forces will seek to follow.”
Ioannis Papachristofilou, Vice President Government Aviation at Pilatus, adds: “This contract will see us bring our brand-new PC-7 MKX into service together with a comprehensive suite of training aids designed and developed by Pilatus to ensure seamless integration of the training system. We look forward to working closely with the Koninklijke Luchtmacht and are honored by their longstanding confidence in Pilatus.”
Pilatus enjoys a long-and well-established relationship with the Royal Netherlands Air Force, which began with the acquisition of Pilatus PC-7 trainers in 1988. Based on the successful PC-7 MkII, the new PC-7 MKX training system will replace the aging PC-7 “Turbo-Trainer” fleet and will also be based in Woensdrecht, in the south of the Netherlands.
A state-of-the-art cockpit with a complete array of ground-based training tools is at the heart of the brand-new PC-7 MKX Training System. The cockpit is centered on a three-display philosophy using the latest generation of high-definition screens. These systems give students an easy entry into the world of modern avionics while simultaneously training vital flying skills in an aircraft with outstanding but forgiving flying characteristics, making it the ideal “basic trainer.”
The Netherlands is the first country to opt for the new PC-7 MKX, and Pilatus is currently involved in additional tenders related to Pilatus' new basic trainer.
Following a public invitation to tender issued by the Dutch procurement authority, “Material & IT Command” (COMMIT), Pilatus has been selected to supply eight PC-7 MKXs and associated ground training systems, including four simulators.
The new state-of-the-art PC-7 MKX training system will enable future crews of the Royal Dutch Air Force to acquire essential flight skills while preparing for advanced training phases. The integrated flight simulators will allow for a reduction in the number of aircraft, making training more cost-effective.
According to Pilatus, the package includes advanced virtual reality-based components that will significantly enhance immersion and engagement for both student pilots and instructors. The new solution incorporates interactive panels and virtual reality modules alongside conventional training tools, creating a more hands-on learning environment and further enhancing the basic pilot training experience.
A central component is Pilatus’ advanced Training Management System that includes mission planning and mission debriefing tools. While these capabilities have traditionally only been introduced in the later stages of flight instruction, they are now being implemented earlier in training. The PC-7 MKX system provides student pilots and instructors with access to operational information and performance analytics, improving situational awareness and accelerating learning, while easing the transition to more complex aircraft and mission profiles.
The Dutch Ministry of Defence states: “We have had a long and good relationship with Pilatus. With the contract signing for a state-of-the-art learning environment we are extending this partnership for another 30 years.”
Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, commented as follows: “We’re delighted to announce this contract for our new PC-7 MKX training system and we thank Holland for its decision! This marks the beginning of a new era of basic flight training in the Netherlands, which – I am sure – will set a new standard that other air forces will seek to follow.”
Ioannis Papachristofilou, Vice President Government Aviation at Pilatus, adds: “This contract will see us bring our brand-new PC-7 MKX into service together with a comprehensive suite of training aids designed and developed by Pilatus to ensure seamless integration of the training system. We look forward to working closely with the Koninklijke Luchtmacht and are honored by their longstanding confidence in Pilatus.”
Pilatus enjoys a long-and well-established relationship with the Royal Netherlands Air Force, which began with the acquisition of Pilatus PC-7 trainers in 1988. Based on the successful PC-7 MkII, the new PC-7 MKX training system will replace the aging PC-7 “Turbo-Trainer” fleet and will also be based in Woensdrecht, in the south of the Netherlands.
A state-of-the-art cockpit with a complete array of ground-based training tools is at the heart of the brand-new PC-7 MKX Training System. The cockpit is centered on a three-display philosophy using the latest generation of high-definition screens. These systems give students an easy entry into the world of modern avionics while simultaneously training vital flying skills in an aircraft with outstanding but forgiving flying characteristics, making it the ideal “basic trainer.”
The Netherlands is the first country to opt for the new PC-7 MKX, and Pilatus is currently involved in additional tenders related to Pilatus' new basic trainer.
Source, Image: Pilatus Aircraft
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