Netherlands Acquires Eight Pilatus PC-7 MKX Trainers and Four Flight Simulators
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The Dutch Ministry of Defense has acquired eight new training aircraft and four flight simulators, along with educational materials to support pilot instruction. The current fleet of 13 Pilatus PC-7 aircraft is nearing the end of its operational life, and the selected replacement for the Elementary Military Pilot Training (EMVO) program will be the PC-7 MKX.
Two contracts with Swiss manufacturer Pilatus were signed today at Woensdrecht Air Base.
First Customer for the PC-7 MKX
The Royal Netherlands Air Force (Koninklijke Luchtmacht) becomes the first customer to select the PC-7 MKX. This next-generation training system will provide the Dutch Air Force with an advanced, cost-effective, and integrated solution tailored to its basic military pilot training needs.
As part of a public procurement process led by the Dutch Procurement Authority ("Material & IT Command" – COMMIT), Pilatus was chosen to supply:
- Eight PC-7 MKX aircraft
- Four flight simulators
- A complete training ecosystem
Deliveries are scheduled for the first half of 2027.
A second contract covers maintenance support for the first five years, marking a collaboration between the Air Force, the Material & IT Command, and Pilatus.
An Integrated Training System
The new Pilatus training system incorporates advanced virtual reality (VR) components, enhancing immersion for both students and instructors. The solution integrates:
- Interactive screens
- VR-based modules
- Traditional instructional tools
This creates a more hands-on learning environment. A key component is the Pilatus Training Management System, which includes mission planning and assessment tools introduced at earlier stages of training. This improves situational awareness and accelerates the learning curve for students.
Long-Term Partnership with Pilatus
The Dutch Ministry of Defense highlighted its long-standing relationship with Pilatus and has extended the collaboration for 30 years. The new PC-7 MKX training fleet will replace the aging PC-7 aircraft, enhancing basic flight instruction while integrating advanced training tools to ensure a smooth transition to more complex aircraft and advanced missions.
The PC-7 MKX is a basic training aircraft featuring a next-generation cockpit with high-definition displays, allowing students to learn modern avionics while developing fundamental flying skills. With this acquisition, the Netherlands becomes the first nation to implement Pilatus’ new training system.
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