Netherlands to acquire new Pilatus trainer aircraft

The RNLAF is to replace its PC-7 (pictured) trainer aircraft with a new type from the same manufacturer, Pilatus, subject to a pending protest from the unidentified losing bidder for the requirement. (Janes/Patrick Allen)

The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) is to replace its Pilatus PC-7 Turbo Trainer turboprop trainer aircraft with a new type from the Swiss manufacturer to be delivered from early 2027.

The Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) said on 14 October that eight new Pilatus aircraft and two simulators are to be acquired to replace the 13 PC-7s that have been in service with the RNLAF's Elementary Military Pilot Training (EMVO) school since 1988.

“Military pilots must be able to carry out complex missions in the air. To be able to do this, every military pilot at Woensdrecht Air Base starts with the EMVO,” the MoD said, adding, “The training aircraft must be relatively easy and predictable to control. The student and instructor must also operate safely in it under conditions that demand the utmost from the training aircraft. The products of the Swiss company Pilatus are the best match for the requirements of the MoD. This company has been provisionally awarded the contract.”

The MoD announcement did not disclose the new Pilatus aircraft type; it will be either the PC-7 MKX or the PC-21, both of which are twin tandem-seat single-engined turboprop airframes of a similar type to the PC-7 being replaced. As noted in the announcement, an unidentified bidder that lost out to Pilatus is protesting the selection. The MoD said a contract award can only be made once this protest is resolved in its favour.