In January 1999 Pilatus launched the development of a completely new training system, the PC-21. The objective was to meet the expectations of modern air forces over the next 30 years both in terms of capability and life-cycle cost.

With this in mind, the PC-21 development specification focused on three core objectives:

A superior aerodynamic performance when compared with any other turboprop
    trainer on the market.

A more powerful, flexible and cost effective integrated training system than any
    other jet or turboprop trainer in the world.

A life-cycle support cost not to exceed current turboprop benchmarks.

The PC-21 prototypes have triple-digit flight hours on the clock and have successfully met programme objectives. Flight-testing and certification are on track, and first series production has begun.