First Dutch Pilatus PC-7 MKX flies as Europe revamps military training fleets

The first Pilatus PC-7 MKX for the Royal Netherlands Air Force completed its maiden flight, advancing a training fleet renewal program as European militaries invest in new aircraft, digital cockpits and flight simulators.

The flight took place on September 7, 2026, at Buochs Airfield, adjacent to Pilatus’ headquarters in Stans, Switzerland, according to the Dutch Ministry of Defense. The Netherlands has ordered eight aircraft and four simulators, with the first aircraft expected to enter service in May 2027. Delivery of the entire package, including training equipment, should be completed by September of that year.

The new aircraft will serve the Netherlands’ basic military flying course, where students learn the fundamentals of flight before moving to more advanced training. The ministry said its existing trainers are approaching the end of their useful lives and that the replacement trainers will better prepare students for the modern aircraft they will eventually operate.

Production formally began in February 2026. The first three aircraft will support testing and the training of instructors and technicians before delivery, with the remaining five following in stages.

The PC-7 MKX targets the earliest stages of military pilot training, preparing students who may later fly fighters, multiengine aircraft or helicopters. Pilatus lists a maximum operating speed of 300 knots indicated airspeed, a maximum climb rate of 2,675 feet per minute and maneuvering limits of +7 and -3.5 Gs. The aircraft also incorporates Martin-Baker ejection seats.

Its cockpit uses Garmin G3000 Prime avionics adapted for military training, including customizable displays. France’s aircraft will also receive a head-up display, which Pilatus says will provide greater commonality with the PC-21 used for later training.

The Dutch program forms part of a growing European customer base for the MKX. France selected a package of 22 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled for 2027, under a training arrangement involving Babcock France. Its Mentor 2 program includes a 17-year services contract, supported by simulators, computer-based instruction and mission planning and debriefing equipment.

France already operates 26 PC-21s for advanced military pilot training. Adding the MKX extends Pilatus’ role into the basic phase, allowing the manufacturer to supply aircraft and associated training equipment across successive stages of the French syllabus.

Belgium subsequently selected 18 PC-7 MKXs under a 20-year training services agreement approved in November 2025. Aircraft deliveries should begin in 2027, with training planned to start in 2028.

That package also includes simulators, classroom training tools and mission planning systems, along with new and upgraded facilities at Beauvechain Air Base. Pilatus and Belgian partners will provide infrastructure and operational support, extending the business well beyond the sale of aircraft.The post First Dutch Pilatus PC-7 MKX flies as Europe revamps military training fleets appeared first on AeroTime.

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