The Belgian Federal Cabinet has approved the acquisition of 18 new Pilatus PC-7 MKX turboprop training aircraft, replacing the ageing Marchetti SF-260 fleet that has served for 55 years.
The €40 million-per-year contract includes flight simulators, new infrastructure at Beauvechain Air Base, and 20 years of operational support. The last Marchetti aircraft will retire in 2027, with pilot training on the new PC-7 MKX set to begin in 2028.
Defence Minister Theo Francken (N-VA) said the decision ensures Belgium’s military aviation remains at the cutting edge:
“With this decision, we are investing in the future of our military aviation. After France and the Netherlands, Belgium has now also opted for the latest PC-7 MKX from Pilatus, an aircraft that delivers outstanding training performance.”
The PC-7 MKX offers modern avionics, digital cockpits, and compatibility with current NATO training standards, marking a major step forward in Belgium’s pilot training capabilities.