Dutch Air Force Leads with New PC-7 MKX Trainer

The Koninklijke Luchtmacht has just become the first customer to opt for the PC-7 MKX. This new training system will provide the Dutch Air Force with an integrated, cost-effective, solution to meet its needs for basic flying training of its military pilots. The corresponding contract was signed – delivery is planned for the first half of 2027.

Under a public invitation to tender, issued by the Dutch Procurement Authority, “Material & IT Command” (COMMIT), Pilatus was selected to deliver eight PC-7 MKXs and associated ground-based training systems, including four simulators.

The purchase demonstrates that the Dutch Ministry of Defense is confident that the PC-7 MKX training system will allow future crews to acquire essential flying skills while preparing for the advanced training phases. The flight simulators will play a larger role, ensuring that fewer aircraft are required, underlining the cost-effectiveness of the integrated training system by Pilatus.

This package includes advanced VR-based components, enhancing immersion and engagement for both student pilots and instructors. The new solution incorporates interactive wallboards and virtual reality modules alongside conventional training tools.

A central component is Pilatus’ advanced Training Management System, featuring Mission Planning and Mission Debriefing tools. While these capabilities have traditionally been introduced only in the advanced stages of flight instruction, they are now being deployed earlier in training. By giving student pilots and instructors access to operational insights and performance analytics, the PC-7 MKX solution enhances situational awareness and accelerates learning, smoothing the transition into 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, said: “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.”

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.

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.