The Royal Netherlands Air Force (Koninklijke Luchtmacht) has officially become the launch customer for the PC-7 MKX training system, securing a contract with Pilatus to modernize its basic pilot training program. Delivery of the new aircraft and integrated training solutions is scheduled for the first half of 2027.
The Dutch Procurement Authority, through its Material & IT Command (COMMIT), conducted a public procurement process that led to the selection of Pilatus to supply eight PC-7 MKX aircraft, four flight simulators, and accompanying ground-based training systems.
This decision was announced in October 2024, and the associated contracts were signed on February 2, 2025.
“We have had a long and good relationship with Pilatus,” the Dutch Ministry of Defense commented. “With the contract signing for a state-of-the-art learning environment we are extending this partnership for another 30 years.”
The Royal Netherlands Air Force has operated the Pilatus PC-7 Turbo Trainer since 1988. With the aging fleet of 13 PC-7 trainers reaching the end of their service life, the PC-7 MKX will serve as the new aircraft for the Elementaire Militaire Vlieger Opleiding (EMVO) located at Woensdrecht Air Base in the south of the Netherlands.
“We’re delighted to announce this contract for our new PC-7 MKX training system,” Pilatus CEO Markus Bucher. “This marks the beginning of a new era of basic flight training in the Netherlands and sets a new standard for air forces worldwide.”
Pilatus introduced the PC-7 MKX at the Dubai Airshow in November 2021. This new trainer features an upgraded cockpit equipped with three high-definition displays. It also comes with Martin-Baker Mk11A ejection seats, which enhance safety and allow for early instruction of student pilots in ejection procedures.
On January 10, 2025, the French Air and Space Force also announced the selection of 29 Pilatus PC-7 MKX trainers and 12 flight simulators. These will be operated by the private company Babcock International France Aviation from Salon-de-Provence Air Base 701. The new aircraft will replace the existing fleet of Cirrus SR20 at the Provençal base and the Grob G120A from Cognac-Châteaubernard Air Base 709.
The Swiss manufacturer has stated that it is actively pursuing additional tenders for the PC-7 MKX worldwide.
