PC-21 Training Aircraft To Be Equipped With Esterline Avionics

Esterline CMC Electronics (CMC) has been selected to supply its latest generation CMA-9000 flight management system (FMS) and SparrowHawk head-up display (HUD) sub-systems to Pilatus Aircraft.

The high-performance avionics are scheduled to be installed onboard the PC-21 turboprop training aircraft intended for the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) and Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF), according to Military Technology.

Pilatus is scheduled to supply a total of 55 and 24 PC-21 trainers, along with integrated ground based training system and a comprehensive logistics support package, to RSAF and QEAF as part of contracts signed in May and July 2012, respectively.

Esterline CMC Government and Public Affairs Sales vice-president Jean-Michel Comtois said, ''Esterline CMC is very proud to supply its high-performance avionics for the PC-21 aircraft, given Pilatus's prestigious reputation, product line and the unique profile of the PC-21."

Featuring advanced tactical functions, radio management and night vision goggle (NGV)-capability, the CMA-9000 is a compact FMS designed for installation in modern digital cockpits of both fixed and rotary wing aircraft.

The SparrowHawk HUD is a complete weapons delivery system offering a powerful, cost-effective solution that can increase pilots' aiming envelope, and allows for pinpoint accuracy and a greater combat safety margin.

Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68B turboprop engine, the PC-21 is a low-wing swept-monoplane advanced trainer aircraft designed to fulfil the requirements for basic, advanced and fighter lead-in training for pilots and, if required, weapon systems officers (WSO).

The aircraft features a fully digital glass cockpit with head-up displays, an up-front control panel (UFPC), hands-on throttle and stick (HOTAS) control and full-sized multi-function displays, to enable the basic and advanced flying training to keep pace with the fourth generation aircraft already in service in the front line squadrons.

Apart from Qatar and Saudi Arabia, the aircraft has also been ordered by the air forces of Singapore, Switzerland and the UAE.