By selecting the PC-7 MKX from Pilatus, the French Air Force has opted for a modern and sophisticated training system for its military pilots. The contract to provide 22 of these aircraft, which is part of the so-called "Mentor 2" program, was awarded in early 2025. Delivery of the first aircraft is scheduled for 2027. In addition to the aircraft, a comprehensive package of ground-based training systems will also be delivered, developed in collaboration with French industry.
The selection of the PC-7 MKX for basic military pilot training is a strategic move for the French Air Force. In recent years, France has already achieved great success in advanced pilot training with the Pilatus PC-21. These aircraft, in service since 2018, have proven to be extremely efficient and reliable and are now complemented by the PC-7 MKX. With the introduction of the PC-7 MKX, France will rely exclusively on Pilatus aircraft, which play a central role in both basic and advanced pilot training.
The 22 PC-7 MKX aircraft supplied by Babcock France under the contract will form the backbone of the French Air Force's new training system. The 17-year contract includes not only the aircraft but also extensive ground-based components, including simulators, computer-based training and systems for mission planning and debriefing, some of which are being developed in close collaboration with French industry. These innovations are designed to ensure that pilots are trained on state-of-the-art equipment that meets the requirements of an ever-changing military landscape.
The PC-7 MKX and its modern technologies
The PC-7 MKX aircraft feature a newly developed cockpit equipped with the Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics system. This system represents a significant advance in military pilot training. It offers a user-friendly, intuitive interface and enables precise control of the aircraft - important features for the early stages of training. An additional head-up display ensures even greater compatibility with the existing PC-21 system, which also comes from Pilatus.
The PC-7 MKX avionics system is a collaboration between Pilatus and Garmin and is based on G3000 PRIME technology, which enables the adaptability of the displays. This collaboration has made it possible to develop a state-of-the-art system that is not only reliable but also extremely flexible. Thanks to these technologies, pilots are offered an ideal training environment that meets the requirements of military training while being tailored to the individual needs of the Air Force.
Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, expressed his pride in the contract in a statement and stressed how important it was for the company to have once again gained the trust of the French Air Force. He emphasized that the PC-7 MKX is equipped with a head-up display, which further increases compatibility with advanced systems such as the PC-21. The new ground-based training system, including simulators, sets new standards and offers a cost-effective training solution for French military pilots.
The role of Babcock France and cooperation with industry
The new training system will be deployed and operated in close collaboration with Babcock France, a company specialised in providing maintenance and training services to the aviation industry. Under the Mentor 2 contract, Babcock France will not only be responsible for providing the training services, but also for the long-term maintenance and support of the PC-7 MKX fleet. This partnership will ensure France a reliable and effective training solution for years to come.
In addition, the new training system is being developed in close cooperation with French industry. Various companies will be involved in the provision and operation of simulators and other training components. This cooperation ensures that the system not only meets the highest standards, but also supports the local economy.
A look into the future
With the introduction of the PC-7 MKX as a training aircraft, France is setting another milestone in the modernization of its air force. Advanced pilot training has been carried out on the PC-2018 since 21, and the new system for basic training will enable a seamless transition of pilots from beginner to advanced status. The decision to choose Pilatus as a partner shows how important it is for the French Air Force to rely on proven and reliable technologies.
The PC-7 MKX is not only important for France. Other air forces, such as the Royal Netherlands Air Force, have also shown interest in the new training system. These international partnerships and the success of the PC-21 show that Pilatus plays a leading role in the field of military pilot training.
Overall, the PC-7 MKX contract represents an important step for France and Pilatus in the further development of aviation technology and military training. The system will not only meet the high requirements of the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace, but will also serve as a model for other air forces that want to rely on modern and effective training solutions.
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