Pilatus details PC-21 orders

Pilatus Aircraft has signed three orders worth $292 million to deliver a total of 21 PC-21 fixed-wing trainer aircraft, the company announced on 4 January.

The company will deliver 17 PC-21s to the French Air Force and two each to the Royal Jordanian Air Force and QinetiQ.

The French Air Force will use its new aircraft to train future military pilots who will transfer to the Alpha Jet prior to their conversion on to the Dassault Rafale.

Having placed an initial order for eight PC-9 M in August 2015, the Royal Jordanian Air Force revised its requirements following a modification of the training concept, introducing the PC-21 all-through training model. The contract amendment was initially for eight aircraft with an option for additional units. This order comes under the option for two units, bringing the order to ten aircraft. 

Pilatus will also provide two PC-21s to the Empire Test Pilots' School (ETPS) operated by QinetiQ. The PC-21s with their modified flight instruments are being acquired as part of a modernisation programme at the school. 

To be based at MoD Boscombe Down, Salisbury, the aircraft will carry out duties currently supported by ETPS Hawks and Alpha Jets. Students will train using the aircraft on flight test techniques including assessment of aircraft performance, handling and systems such as advanced cockpit displays and simulated weapons.