Pilatus PC-9 is a double-seater advanced trainer turboprop aircraft, designed to cater for the advanced training of military pilots. Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-62 engine with over 1000 hp, it reaches cruise speed of over 660 km/h, and its operational range is an impressive 1570 km. Excellent flight characteristics and low operating costs make it one of the most effective training tools for armed forces all over the world.
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The version being used by Slovenian Armed Forces (labelled as PC-9M Hudournik) was additionally adapted to the requirements of the formation – both in terms of avionics and systems simulating combat conditions. Thanks to state-of-the-art navigation systems, Head-Up Display (HUD) and armament simulation capabilities, PC-9 is able to realistically imitate missions which young pilots will undertake in the future on combat aircraft.
In Slovenian Air Force, Pilatus PC-9 plays a key role in the training process military pilots are engaged in. The aircraft is used by aviation trainees to learn advanced piloting techniques, operating procedures, combat manoeuvres, and collaboration with flight control and other airborne units. It is not only a bridge between basic training and flights on jet aircraft, but also an introduction to the environment of multi-task tactical missions.
