The Swiss Air Force has already carried out modernization measures on its Pilatus PC-7 fleet in the past to maintain and further improve the performance and availability of the aircraft. Among other things, a comprehensive modernization program (NCPC7) was implemented between 2005 and 2008. Since then, continuous adjustments have been made through the modification service.
The current modernization program PC-7 WE, which was launched as part of the Armed Forces Message 2023, is divided into two milestones and provides for further investments to extend the service life of the aircraft and their simulators. In a first phase, the accompanying measures will be brought forward and implemented by the end of 2025. The second step, the modernization phase in which selected systems will be renewed, will then begin. This should ensure that the PC-7 fleet can continue to serve as the central platform for basic military pilot training.
The early accompanying measures to prepare for the upgrade programme will now be implemented in close collaboration with the OEM Pilatus by the end of 2025. Pilatus is responsible for the design, procurement and consolidation of the modification kits required for the conversion work and will convert a total of 13 aircraft at its Stans site. The remaining 14 aircraft will be modified at our site in Lodrino. Six aircraft have already been returned to the air force since the early implementation measures began. The schedule envisages that all 27 aircraft will be modified and returned to the customer by the end of 2025.
The early implementation measures include the following main tasks:
- Cockpit: Conversion of the communication systems for civilian radio traffic
- Installation of a new TAS (collision warning system)
- ADF (automatic radio direction finder) systems are being removed
- Avionics and antennas are being removed and reinstalled
- The wiring harnesses are being removed and reinstalled, including additional work
In addition, the aircraft that we have modified are undergoing a preventive maintenance and servicing check, thereby optimizing downtime. The entire planning process is being carried out in close collaboration with the customer and Pilatus in order to ensure the highest possible availability at all times.
All these measures ensure that the PC-7 will continue to meet the requirements of modern pilot training in the future and can be operated by the Swiss Air Force until 2040.