Pilatus PC-21

The Pilatus PC-21 is an advanced turboprop-powered trainer aircraft with a stepped tandem cockpit, designed and manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland. It was introduced in April 2008 and is actively serving in various air forces worldwide, including the Swiss Air Force, Royal Saudi Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, and United Arab Emirates Air Force.

Powered by a single Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68B turboprop engine, the PC-21 features a tandem-seating arrangement, pressurized cabin, and advanced avionics systems. It is equipped with an On-Board Oxygen Generation System, air conditioning, and Martin-Baker CH16C Zero-Zero ejection seats. The aircraft’s flight controls are optimized for ease of operation, and it features an anti-g system to minimize the effects of high g-forces during training maneuvers.

A key feature of the PC-21 is its embedded simulation and training suite, which provides cross-platform cockpit emulation, weapons simulation, and tactical situation display. The cockpit features three large colour liquid crystal displays (LCD), providing essential flight and mission management information. The aircraft’s systems can be customized to simulate various combat scenarios, enhancing training realism.

Overall, the Pilatus PC-21 represents a significant advancement in turboprop trainer technology, offering unmatched performance, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness for military pilot training programmes.