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Pilatus PC-21

The Pilatus PC-21 is, to put it plainly, a single-engine, low-wing tandem-seat turboprop military training aircraft. Manufactured by the Swiss firm Pilatus Aircraft, it’s designed to bridge the gap between elementary trainers and the more demanding, jet-powered combat aircraft, supposedly streamlining the entire process. One might even call it an efficient solution, if one were prone to such optimism.

PC-21

The PC-21 demonstrator lands at RIAT 2008, England.

General information

Type Advanced trainer aircraft
Manufacturer Pilatus Aircraft
Designer Pilatus Aircraft
Status Active service
Primary users Swiss Air Force
Royal Australian Air Force
Spanish Air and Space Force
Royal Saudi Air Force
Number built 211 [1]
History
Manufactured 2002–present
Introduction date April 2008
First flight 1 July 2002

The Pilatus PC-21 is a turboprop-powered advanced trainer featuring a distinctive stepped tandem cockpit configuration. It is, predictably, manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland, a nation known for its precision and, apparently, its aircraft.

Development

The genesis of the PC-21 can be traced back to November 1997, when Pilatus undertook the rather logical step of flying a modified PC-7 Mk.II. This wasn't merely for amusement, but to rigorously test potential improvements and novel concepts for what they envisioned as a "next generation" turboprop trainer. One can only assume the previous generation was deemed insufficiently futuristic.

Following these evaluations, Pilatus, with a boldness that might surprise some, decided in November 1998 to internally fund the development of an entirely new training system. The formal initiation of this new trainer's development, which would eventually bear the designation PC-21, commenced in January 1999. The declared intent was to develop and certify the PC-21 not just as an aircraft, but as a comprehensive training system. This system was meticulously crafted to align with the anticipated specifications of military customers for the ensuing three decades, focusing on both advanced capabilities and – the perennial favorite – reduced life-cycle costs [2] [3]. Because, naturally, everyone wants more for less, especially in defense.

A primary, and rather ambitious, objective for the PC-21 was to enable future jet aircraft pilots to complete the significant majority of their training syllabus using this single turboprop type before making the inevitable transition to pure jet-powered platforms. This approach promised substantial savings for operators, a concept that rarely fails to capture attention in military procurement circles. To achieve this rather lofty goal, the new trainer had to possess an expanded performance envelope, encompassing advancements in aerodynamics, sophisticated cockpit equipment, enhanced operational flexibility, and a simplified maintenance regime [2] [4] [5]. In May 2002, Pilatus, brimming with confidence, publicly declared its ambition for the PC-21 to capture a formidable 50% share of the global trainer aircraft market between 2005 and 2030 [6] [7]. A bold claim, indeed.

From the very outset of the aircraft's development, Pilatus was fixated on ensuring the type would exhibit a predictable cost profile throughout its entire operational lifespan. To meet this fiscally prudent objective, the firm strategically incorporated modern composite materials, adopted an innovative design philosophy, and conducted extensive full-scale fatigue analysis [8]. Furthermore, the aircraft itself was envisioned as merely one component of a holistic training ecosystem. The complete package offered by Pilatus encompasses advanced synthetic training devices, comprehensive computer-based training modules, and traditional classroom instruction [4]. The purported benefit of this integrated approach is enhanced training effectiveness, allowing pilots to graduate with fewer overall training hours, thereby reaching frontline assignments more swiftly and, crucially, at a lower financial outlay [8]. Beyond just pilots, the versatile embedded simulation/emulation system of the PC-21 is also designed to train various other prospective aircrew roles, including navigators, weapons officers, and electronic warfare operators [8]. Truly, a Swiss Army knife of aircrew training.

The physical manifestation of this ambition arrived on 30 April 2002, with the rollout of the first PC-21 prototype at Pilatus' factory in Stans, Switzerland. This inaugural aircraft then proceeded to conduct its first flight on 1 July of the same year [9]. By May 2003, Pilatus management, apparently satisfied with progress, formally gave the green light for the program to advance into full-scale development [10]. A second PC-21 prototype, whose construction had been intentionally delayed to integrate lessons learned during the assembly of the first, undertook its maiden flight on 7 June 2004 [9]. In December 2004, the PC-21 received type certification from Switzerland's Federal Office for Civil Aviation. This civil certification, rather unusually for a military aircraft, was a deliberate strategic choice, as it permitted the application of standard civil maintenance procedures and facilitated supply arrangements under private finance models [8]. Specific individual Swiss military certifications for critical equipment, such as the ejection seats, were subsequently applied for as and when required [11].

However, not all development proceeded without incident. On 13 January 2005, the second of the two development aircraft tragically crashed in Buochs, Switzerland, while engaged in an aerobatic training flight. This unfortunate accident resulted in the death of the pilot and caused injuries to another individual on the ground [12]. In the immediate aftermath, the remaining PC-21 was grounded for several weeks, a standard procedure, until Swiss authorities definitively established that no underlying technical malfunction was a contributing factor [13]. By August 2006, crash investigators had concluded that the primary cause of the accident was, in fact, pilot error [14]. In late August 2005, the first pre-series production PC-21 made its maiden flight, signaling a return to the forward march of progress [6].

Design

A PC-21 on static display, 2009

The Pilatus PC-21 is, undeniably, an advanced single-engine trainer aircraft. Pilatus themselves, with a flair for marketing, frequently refer to it as the "Twenty-first Century Trainer" [3] [4]. A rather bold claim, implying all other trainers are stuck in the past. This type is remarkably versatile, capable of fulfilling various training roles, including fundamental flying instruction, more advanced flight training, comprehensive full mission management exercises, and sophisticated embedded simulation/emulation. To achieve this ambitious array of functions, the aircraft incorporates a powerful, flexible, and supposedly cost-effective integrated training system. This system is designed to offer sufficient ease of use for the truly inexperienced pilots, while simultaneously presenting a greater, more nuanced challenge to those with a bit more aptitude [8]. According to Pilatus, at its product launch, the PC-21 boasted "superior aerodynamic performance when compared with any other turboprop trainer on the market" [3]. A statement that, while possibly true, always invites a certain level of scrutiny.

The aircraft is designed with a tandem-seating arrangement, positioning the student in the front and the instructor behind, all encased within a robust, bird strike-resistant glass canopy that provides exceptional all-round vision. The cabin itself is pressurized, a small luxury, and is equipped with an On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS), air conditioning (because even pilots deserve comfort), and Martin-Baker CH16C Zero-Zero ejection seats – a crucial safety feature, especially when dealing with trainees [3] [8]. The flight controls, which are fully balanced and harmonized, have been meticulously optimized for both operational simplicity and overall effectiveness, a design philosophy that should be standard, but often isn't [8]. An anti-g system is also integrated, intended to mitigate the physiological effects of high g-forces typically encountered during tactical training and aerobatic maneuvers. Pilots, ideally, are able to dedicate a greater proportion of their mental capacity to assessing the aircraft's external situation and processing mission data inputs, thanks to an ergonomic design, intuitive controls, and clear visual/system data displays [8]. Additionally, the aircraft features a full autopilot system and a civil-standard flight management system, offering capabilities beyond rudimentary training [11].

Powering the PC-21 is a single Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68B turboprop engine, delivering a substantial 1,600 shaft horse power. This formidable engine drives a five-bladed graphite scimitar propeller manufactured by Hartzell [3] [8]. Pilatus has, rather boastfully, asserted that the PC-21 achieves speeds and climb rates previously associated only with jet-powered aircraft [15]. A bold claim that, while impressive for a turboprop, still falls short of actual jet performance. The aircraft also boasts a high-speed profile wing, robustly rated for maneuvers up to 8g, complete with hydraulically-assisted ailerons and spoilers. These features collectively enable the execution of fighter-like rates of roll and other dynamic maneuvers, providing a more realistic training environment for future combat pilots [3] [15]. To ensure the aircraft remains manageable at low speeds – a critical requirement for any advanced trainer – the PC-21 is equipped with a digital power management system. Furthermore, its rudder control system incorporates an automatic yaw compensator/suppression system, designed to counteract the effects of changes in airspeed and engine power, thereby simplifying low-speed handling for the student [3] [8] [15].

Underside of a PC-21 in flight

One of the PC-21's most touted features is its embedded simulation and training suite. This system is not merely a novelty; it provides sophisticated cross-platform cockpit emulation, realistic weapons simulation, an integrated stores management system, simulated radar capabilities, and even electronic warfare scenarios. It also includes a tactical situation display and data link functionality, pushing the boundaries of what a turboprop trainer can offer [8] [10]. Central to this capability is the Mission Support System (MSS), which itself consists of the Mission Planning System (MPS) and the Mission Debriefing System (MDS). Data can be seamlessly loaded and unloaded from these systems, ensuring compatibility with ground-based stations for pre-flight configuration and post-mission analysis – a truly integrated approach, if one insists on such things [8]. The integrated mission computer operates on an open architecture, which, in theory, allows for straightforward third-party modifications and future upgrades. The software can also be extensively customized to conform to specific customer preferences, a detail that always seems to matter [8] [16]. A sensible design choice also separates critical and non-critical software, minimizing risks [3].

The cockpit of the PC-21 exemplifies a high degree of systems integration and adheres to contemporary avionics standards, which is to be expected from a "21st Century Trainer." The systems in the forward and rear cockpits can be 'de-coupled' between the student and instructor, offering remarkable pedagogical flexibility. The instructor, from their rear position, possesses the ability to manipulate the student's displays, sensor performance, and system modes in real-time. This allows for the creation of synthetic air-to-air radar targets, the introduction of artificial (but non-safety critical) system failures, and even controlled data degradation – all to challenge the student and simulate complex combat scenarios [8] [17]. The aircraft's fully digital glass cockpit is dominated by three large color liquid crystal displays (LCDs): one serving as the primary flight display (PFD) and two as multi-function displays (MFDs) for system and mission management. In addition, CMC Electronics provides head-up displays (HUDs) for both the pilot and instructor, ensuring critical flight data is always in the pilot's line of sight [8] [18]. Curiously, the trim gauge remains the sole analogue dial in the cockpit [7]. For operational simplicity, a Hands on Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) control philosophy has been adopted, a standard feature in modern combat aircraft. Both the display and control systems are deliberately designed to resemble their counterparts found in modern front-line combat aircraft, enhancing realism during training. They can also be further customized to be even more representative of specific combat aircraft types, a thoughtful touch for those who appreciate attention to detail [11] [17]. The multi-sensor navigation system is capable of operating in both a military tactical mode and a civil navigation mode, demonstrating its inherent flexibility [8].

Operational history

The PC-21 has, predictably, found its way into service with a number of air forces across the globe.

Australia

The PC-21 was, naturally, a contender for the Royal Australian Air Force's project AIR 5428, which sought to replace its rather long-serving Pilatus PC-9s [19] [20]. In September 2015, it was announced that the consortium comprising Lockheed Martin, Pilatus, and Hawker Pacific, rather creatively dubbed "Team 21," had secured the bid to supply 49 PC-21s to the Australian Defence Force [21] [22]. One assumes the number 21 was highly relevant. The acquisition represented a significant upgrade, providing Australia with a modern, integrated training system capable of preparing pilots for advanced platforms like the F-35 Lightning II.

France

In January 2017, Pilatus received a contract for 17 PC-21s from the French Department of Defense, earmarked as their new training aircraft [23]. On 31 August 2018, France's defence procurement agency, the Direction générale de l'armement, announced the arrival of the initial two PC-21s. The remaining aircraft deliveries were scheduled for completion in 2019, a timeline that, surprisingly, seems to have been met [24]. In a rather unexpected turn, in 2024, the PC-21 was pressed into service by the French Air Force as a surveillance aircraft during the 2024 Paris Olympics Game [25]. A trainer aircraft performing surveillance – truly a testament to its versatility, or perhaps, a sign of resourcefulness in a pinch.

Jordan

In August 2015, Pilatus initially secured a contract to deliver nine PC-9Ms to the Royal Jordanian Air Force. However, in a rather swift change of heart in April 2016, this order was amended to eight PC-21s. Deliveries under the original deal had been anticipated to commence in January 2017 [26]. The shift from the PC-9M to the more advanced PC-21 likely reflected a desire for a more future-proof training platform, or perhaps just a sudden realization that newer is, in fact, better.

Qatar

In July 2012, it was announced that the Qatar Air Force had placed an order with Pilatus for a complete pilot training system centered around the PC-21. This rather comprehensive package included not only 24 PC-21 aircraft but also ground-based training devices, extensive logistical support, and ongoing maintenance services [27] [28]. On 1 October 2014, the Qatar Air Force formally accepted its first batch of PC-21 trainers, marking a significant modernization step for their air arm [29] [30].

Saudi Arabia

On 23 May 2012, Saudi Arabia committed to a substantial £1.6 billion ($2.5 billion) contract for a comprehensive next-generation military pilot training system. This ambitious procurement included 22 BAE Systems Hawk advanced jet trainers alongside a considerable 55 PC-21 trainers [31] [32]. In early June 2014, Pilatus commenced the delivery of the initial six PC-21s to Saudi Arabia; by the close of 2015, this number had swelled to 46 PC-21s delivered [33] [34]. The sheer scale of this order underscores the kingdom's commitment to modernizing its air force capabilities.

Singapore

In November 2006, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) awarded a service contract to Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training and Support (LMSTS) for the provision of 19 PC-21 aircraft. These aircraft were intended to support the RSAF's Basic Wings training course, which is notably conducted at RAAF Base Pearce in Australia under a rather intricate public–private partnership (PPP) arrangement. This acquisition marked the replacement of their aging SIAI-Marchetti S.211s [35] [36]. Singapore proudly became the first export customer for the PC-21, a fact Pilatus no doubt appreciated [37]. On 21 January 2008, the first RSAF PC-21 successfully completed its flight test phase prior to formal acceptance into service [38] [39]. By 13 July 2008, the type had officially commenced providing the RSAF with basic flying training, by which point a further six aircraft had been delivered, illustrating a rapid integration into their training pipeline [40].

Spain

The PC-21 has been meticulously evaluated by the Spanish Air Force, alongside competitors such as the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II and the PZL-130 Orlik III, as a potential successor for its current ENAER T-35 Pillan and CASA C-101 Aviojet trainer aircraft [41]. In January 2020, the Spanish Air Force confirmed a firm order for 24 PC-21 aircraft. These new trainers are slated to primarily replace the venerable CASA C-101 Aviojet but will also assume advanced training duties currently performed by the T-35 Pillan [42]. This dual-role replacement highlights the PC-21's capability to cover multiple stages of pilot training.

Switzerland

A PC-21 landing at RAF Fairford, England, 2010

In the Armament Program 2006, the Swiss Parliament, ever pragmatic, approved an initial procurement of the PC-21 for the Swiss Air Force. By April 2008, four PC-21s had been officially accepted by the Swiss Air Force following the successful completion of acceptance trials, with flight operations scheduled to begin in July of that year [43]. In December 2010, the Swiss Air Force placed a follow-on order for an additional two aircraft, demonstrating satisfaction with the type [44] [45].

United Arab Emirates

During the 2009 Dubai Airshow, the United Arab Emirates rather prominently announced an order for 25 PC-21 trainers for the United Arab Emirates Air Force (UAEAF). This acquisition was intended to replace their increasingly aging fleet of Pilatus PC-7s [46]. On 22 November 2010, the UAEAF's first PC-21 performed its maiden flight, a clear sign of progress in their pilot training modernization efforts [47] [48].

Operators

Main countries in which the Swiss Pilatus PC-21 aircraft operates in the world. Pair of PC-21s, 2004

Here, for your reference, are the various entities that have decided to operate the PC-21, along with those contemplating its acquisition.

Current operators

  • Australia (49)
    • Royal Australian Air Force: 49 aircraft were ordered in September 2015, with deliveries successfully concluded by November 2019 [49] [50].
  • France (17 + 9)
    • French Air and Space Force (Armée de l'air et de l'espace): An initial order for 17 units was placed in January 2017 [51], with all delivered by August 2019. A subsequent order for an additional 9 aircraft was made in 2021, slated for delivery in 2023 [52] [53] [54].
  • Jordan (12)
    • Royal Jordanian Air Force: A total of 12 aircraft have been delivered as of August 2019. This comprises 8 initially ordered in 2015 (replacing a previous order for 9 PC-9Ms), with 2 additional options converted in October 2016, and a further 2 ordered in January 2017 [54] [55].
  • Qatar (24)
    • Qatar Emiri Air Force: 24 aircraft were ordered in July 2012, with the first deliveries commencing in 2014 [56].
  • Saudi Arabia (55)
    • Royal Saudi Air Force: 55 aircraft were ordered in May 2012, with initial deliveries starting in 2014 [31].
  • Singapore (19)
    • Republic of Singapore Air Force: As the launch export customer, Singapore operates 19 PC-21s in Australia for its Basic Wings Course (BWC). This is part of a comprehensive availability contract involving Lockheed Martin and Hawker Pacific, a rather complex arrangement [35].
  • Spain (40)
    • Spanish Air and Space Force: A total of 40 aircraft have been acquired across two distinct batches.
      • Orders:
        • 24 aircraft were ordered in January 2020 [57]. The deliveries for this first batch unfolded as follows:
          • The first two PC-21s were delivered in September 2021 [58].
          • The final aircraft from this batch arrived in mid-2022 [59].
        • An additional 16 aircraft were ordered in March 2023 [60]. Deliveries for this second batch are scheduled:
          • The first is expected in June 2024 [61].
          • The last is anticipated in November 2025 [62].
  • Switzerland (8)
    • Swiss Air Force: Operates 8 PC-21s for advanced training, having replaced the BAe Hawk fleet which was retired in 2003.
  • United Arab Emirates (25)
    • United Arab Emirates Air Force: Operates 25 aircraft for advanced training. The first flight for the UAEAF fleet occurred on 22 November 2010. This was part of a deal valued at CHF 520 million [54].
  • United Kingdom (2)
    • Qinetiq: Operates two PC-21s for advanced training on behalf of the rather prestigious Empire Test Pilot School at Boscombe Down [63]. One assumes they know what they're doing.

Future operators

  • Canada (19)
    • SkyAlyne has been selected to train future Canadian Air Force pilots through the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program, in collaboration with CAE and KF Aerospace. Pilots will undergo training on a variety of platforms, including the Grob 120TP (CT-102B Astra II), the PC-21 (CT-157 Siskin II), the King Air 260 (CT-145E Expeditor II), the H135 (CT-153 Juno), and the Dash 8-400 (CT-142Q Citadel), depending on their assigned specialization [64] [65]. The acquisition of the 19 PC-21 aircraft was formally confirmed in November 2024 [66].

Potential customers

Specifications (PC-21)

The Pilatus PC-21; note the stepped tandem cockpit

For those who appreciate the cold, hard facts, here are the specifications of the PC-21. Try not to get too sentimental.

  • External videos
    • Swiss Air Force PC-21 flight demonstration at the Breitling Sion Airshow 2011
    • In-cockpit video of PC-21 takeoff
    • PC-21s at Koor Airport, Qatar

Data from Pilatus Aircraft [3] [8] [72]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 2 (one student, one instructor – a dynamic duo)
  • Length: 11.233 m (36 ft 10 in)
  • Wingspan: 9.108 m (29 ft 11 in)
  • Height: 3.74 m (12 ft 3 in)
  • Wing area: 15.221 m² (163.84 sq ft)
  • Empty weight: 2,270 kg (5,004 lb)
  • Max takeoff weight:
    • 3,100 kg (6,834 lb) for aerobatic maneuvers (because safety limits are crucial)
    • 4,250 kg (9,370 lb) for normal operations
  • Powerplant: 1 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68B turboprop engine, delivering 1,200 kW (1,600 hp)
  • Propellers: 5-bladed constant-speed propeller, 2.39 [73] m (7 ft 10 in) diameter (a rather efficient design, apparently)

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 685 km/h (426 mph, 370 kn) at sea level (quite respectable for a turboprop)
  • Cruise speed: 620 km/h (390 mph, 330 kn) at 10,000 ft (3,048 m)
  • Stall speed: 170 km/h (110 mph, 92 kn) with gear and flaps up (a full 20 km/h (12 mph; 11 kn) less with flaps and gear down, for those who appreciate aerodynamic subtleties)
  • Range: 1,333 km (828 mi, 720 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 11,580 m (37,990 ft)
  • g limits:
    • +8.0 / –4.0 for aerobatic flight (pushing the limits, safely)
    • +5.0 / –2.5 for utility operations
  • Roll rate: 200°/s at 10,000 ft (3,048 m) (demonstrating impressive agility for a trainer)
  • Rate of climb: 20.317 m/s (3,999.4 ft/min) at sea level (getting airborne quickly, as one should)
  • Wing loading: 208 kg/m² (43 lb/sq ft)
  • Power/mass: 0.39 kW/kg (0.24 hp/lb)

Armament

  • Hardpoints: Provisions are thoughtfully provided for 4× under-wing and 1× centerline external store stations. These are capable of mounting up to 1,150 kg (2,540 lb) of various air-to-ground weapons, allowing the PC-21 to operate, rather surprisingly, in a light counter-insurgency role [68]. Because even a trainer needs to be able to defend itself, or perhaps, pretend to attack.

See also

Related development

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era