The Belgian Government has selected the Pilatus PC-7 MKX Training System as the new pilot training solution for the Belgian Air Force. A total of 18 PC-7 MKX aircraft, supported by an integrated Ground-Based Training System (GBTS), will replace the current basic training fleet, with deliveries beginning in 2027.
On 27 November 2025, the Belgian Government approved a 20-year service contract with Pilatus to deliver a full training capability based on the PC-7 MKX.
Comprehensive Integrated Training System
The new training solution includes not only the aircraft but also advanced ground-based tools, forming a fully integrated end-to-end system. Pilatus will provide:
-
State-of-the-art flight simulators
-
Computer-based training platforms
-
Mission planning and debriefing systems
This ensures seamless continuity from classroom to cockpit, enhancing training quality and efficiency.
Infrastructure and Belgian Industrial Participation
Pilatus, together with Belgian partners Sabena Engineering and AG Real Estate, will develop and upgrade infrastructure at Bevekom/Beauvechain Air Force Base. They will also ensure operational support for the PC-7 MKX fleet over the next 20 years.
Belgian industry will play a key role in:
-
Construction and refurbishment of training facilities
-
Long-term facility maintenance
-
In-Service Support (ISS) for the aircraft
Training Timeline
Training with the PC-7 MKX is scheduled to begin in 2028, following delivery of the aircraft, completion of infrastructure works and simulator installations, and instructor familiarisation with the new system.
Belgium’s selection aligns it with the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force and the French Air and Space Force, both of which chose the PC-7 MKX in late 2024.
Industry Comments
Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, stated:
“We are proud to welcome Belgian Defence as a new Pilatus customer and the third European air force to select the PC-7 MKX. This milestone reinforces the trust placed in our training systems and highlights our commitment to supporting air forces globally with state-of-the-art solutions.”
Ioannis Papachristofilou, Vice President Government Aviation at Pilatus, added:
“This contract is based on a services business model that allows Belgian Defence to benefit from a comprehensive fully integrated training system, while ensuring long-term financial predictability. We look forward to supporting Belgian Defence with our industrial partners and delivering a leading-edge training capability.”
Advanced Smart Cockpit
The PC-7 MKX features a modern smart cockpit built around the Garmin G3000 PRIME suite. This marks the first integration of the G3000 with custom user-defined displays, offering a highly intuitive, flexible platform tailored to military pilot training.
By combining Pilatus’ proven training philosophy with Garmin’s open architecture, the PC-7 MKX establishes a new benchmark in next-generation military pilot training systems.
For Editorial Inquiries Contact:
Editor Kym Bergmann at kym.bergmann@venturamedia.net
For Advertising Inquiries Contact:
Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at simon.hadfield@venturamedia.net
