Pilatus and Lockheed Martin partner on F-35 offset to develop next-gen PC-21 training system

Under the terms of the agreement, Lockheed Martin will provide data and support to Pilatus, enabling the development of bespoke avionics and training functionalities tailored to fifth-generation aircraft. The new training system will particularly benefit air forces operating the F-35, helping prepare pilots more effectively for modern frontline missions.

“We are delighted to have the support of armasuisse and Lockheed Martin. This technology transfer is a win-win situation for all three parties, and for Switzerland,” said Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus. “Thanks to this cooperation, we can continue to supply our customers with the world’s most advanced training system.”

The project has been endorsed by the Swiss Federal Office for Defence Procurement (armasuisse), which approved the offset initiative in early 2024. J.R. McDonald, Vice President of F-35 Business Development at Lockheed Martin, stated: “We look forward to continuing to partner with Switzerland on the F-35A program and developing this important pilot training capability with Pilatus.”

Switzerland’s agreement to procure the F-35A includes a commitment from Lockheed Martin to deliver industrial offset projects worth 60 percent of the contract value. These initiatives are designed to boost various sectors of the Swiss economy, particularly its aerospace and defence industries.

“This industrial cooperation makes a significant contribution to strengthening our security-relevant technology and industry base,” noted Urs Loher, Director of armasuisse. “It promotes sustainable innovation, technological development and the competitiveness of Swiss industry, which directly benefits national security.”

The training system will be based on the PC-21 platform, Pilatus’s high-performance turboprop trainer known for its efficiency and realism. Designed to simulate the experience of flying advanced jet aircraft, the PC-21 uses embedded systems and cockpit layouts that mirror those found in fifth-generation fighters.

With increasing demands placed on modern air forces, the PC-21 offers a cost-effective, sustainable and capable solution for preparing military pilots. Its innovative training concept allows armed forces to deliver mission-ready pilots while reducing the need for expensive jet trainer hours.