Deal Includes Eight Aircraft And Four Sims

Pilatus Aircraft announced the Koninklijke Luchmacht (Royal Netherlands Air Force or KLu) became the first customer for its PC-7 MKX with the signing of a contract for 8 aircraft and its associated ground training system which includes 4 simulators, to be delivered in early 2027.

The Dutch Ministry of Defense will use the state-of-the-art system for its future pilots and crews to learn basic flying skills and the background prep for advanced phases of training. Its choices reflect a larger utilization of simulators while needing fewer aircraft, showing the cost-effectiveness of the fully integrated training system.

The system includes advanced virtual reality (VR)-based elements that provide trainees and instructors with an immersive and engaging experience. It also incorporates interactive wallboards and VR modules along with conventional training tools. These are hands-on activities to enhance the training.

The Ministry stated, “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 said, “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.”

The KLu has a long-standing relationship with Pilatus, having first acquired the PC-7 training aircraft in 1988, which the new PC-7 MKX system will replace.

FMI: www.pilatus-aircraft.com/