Indonesian Air Force Orders 12 Pilatus PC-24 Multi-Role Jets, Explores 24 PC-21 Trainer Aircraft

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is strengthening its fleet by ordering 12 multi-role Pilatus PC-24 jets, while exploring the purchase of 24 PC-21 trainer aircraft from the Swiss manufacturer Pilatus. According to KompasTekno citing FlightGlobal, the procurement contract covers the purchase of 12 PC-24 units, which will be used for various missions, ranging from transport pilot training and logistics transport to liaison duties. “The contract for 12 PC-24 units has been signed with PT E-System Solutions Indonesia, the official defence contractor appointed by the Ministry of Defence,” stated Pilatus. PT E-System Solutions Indonesia will then handle the procurement and operational support for the aircraft, as quoted by KompasTekno from Pilatus’s official website. The package includes ground-based training systems, spare parts, and technical support to enhance TNI AU’s pilot training capabilities. The Pilatus PC-24 is known as the “Super Versatile Jet” due to its ability to combine jet performance with operational flexibility on short runways, even unpaved ones. The aircraft can be operated by a single pilot and is equipped with a large cargo door, enabling it to carry a combination of passengers and cargo on a single mission. These capabilities are considered important for Indonesia as an archipelagic nation with over 17,000 islands, many of which have limited airport infrastructure. The procurement of the PC-24 and the planned purchase of the PC-21 are part of TNI AU’s modernisation efforts, particularly in increasing operational flexibility and pilot training systems. The PC-21 itself is a trainer aircraft designed to replace some fighter jet training, thereby reducing costs while improving training efficiency. Pilatus will also provide an integrated support package, including ground-based training equipment, spare parts, ground support equipment, and technical support. If realised, Indonesia will become the third customer for the PC-21 in the Asia-Pacific region, following Australia (45 units) and Singapore (19 units). For Pilatus, this contract strengthens its position in the Southeast Asian market, while adding to the list of countries operating the PC-24 and PC-21, which have previously been used by various air forces around the world. “This programme marks the beginning of a long-term relationship, and our priority is to support Indonesia in operating this fleet smoothly,” said Pilatus CEO Markus Bucher. Meanwhile, Ioannis Papachristofilou, Pilatus Vice President for Government Aviation, stated that the selection by the Indonesian Air Force underscores the growing interest from government operators in the PC-24.