French Navy Launches PC-24 Operations with 2026 Jet Deliveries

Defense Feeds – French Navy Launches PC-24 Operations as the service becomes the first military operator in Europe to fly the Pilatus PC-24, marking a major milestone in its modernization of light-transport and liaison aircraft capabilities.

Under a leasing agreement with Jet Aviation France, the French Navy will acquire three PC-24 Super Versatile Jets supplied directly by Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland.

The first aircraft is expected to arrive in February 2026, kicking off France’s transition toward a more adaptable and efficient fleet to support diverse mission requirements.

Pilatus highlighted that the French Navy Launches PC-24 Operations initiative represents a strategic effort to expand the company’s government and defense aviation activities beyond traditional pilot training roles.

The PC-24 jet offers exceptional versatility and performance, capable of operating on both paved and unpaved runways.

Designed for single-pilot operation, it features a large cargo door and can easily shift between passenger transport, logistics, and surveillance missions.

With this capability, the French Navy Launches PC-24 Operations program enhances the service’s readiness for rapid deployment, coastal patrol, and short-field operations in both continental and overseas environments.

Performance and Technical Specifications

The PC-24 Super Versatile Jet is designed for both military and civilian operators seeking an aircraft that combines jet performance with turboprop-like accessibility.

The jet boasts a maximum cruise speed of 440 knots (around 815 km/h) and can reach an altitude ceiling of 45,000 feet (13,716 meters).

Measuring 16.8 meters in length and 5.3 meters in height, the aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of 8,500 kilograms.

These specifications give the aircraft significant reach for regional and continental operations.

The ability to land on short or semi-prepared runways enhances its value for missions in overseas territories, search and rescue operations, or inter-base travel.

Pilatus emphasized that the aircraft’s modular cabin allows quick reconfiguration for medical evacuation, cargo, or VIP transport roles, aligning with the French Navy’s requirement for operational flexibility at reduced costs.

Expanding Pilatus’ Role in European Military Aviation

With France becoming the first naval force in Europe to operate the PC-24, the move reinforces Pilatus’ strategic goal of deepening its footprint in government aviation.

The company, traditionally focused on training aircraft such as the PC-7 and PC-21, is broadening its reach into multi-role platforms suitable for defense ministries and special operations commands.

“Delivering to the French Navy demonstrates our commitment to expanding beyond training aircraft,” Pilatus said in a recent statement.

The deal reflects Europe’s growing interest in dual-use platforms that combine civilian efficiency with military reliability, defending logistics and sovereignty across multiple environments.

The entry of the PC-24 into French service also sets a precedent for other European defense agencies considering compact jet solutions for transport and liaison duties.

The aircraft’s operational flexibility, relatively low maintenance footprint, and short-field performance make it an attractive alternative to larger, costlier aircraft in the same class.

Strengthening France’s Pilot Training and Modernization Efforts

The PC-24 acquisition complements France’s broader modernization program in pilot training, where Pilatus already plays a central role.

Earlier in 2025, the French Ministry of the Armed Forces awarded a 17-year contract to Exail and Babcock France to develop advanced flight simulation systems for the PC-7 MKX training aircraft.

The goal is to create an integrated training environment covering both the French Air and Space Force and the Navy.

That agreement followed France’s order of 22 PC-7 MKX turboprop trainers announced in March 2025, which also included ground-based systems co-developed with French industry partners.

The new training infrastructure will prepare the next generation of military pilots under a unified framework that bridges basic flight instruction and advanced jet transition.

By aligning its training ecosystem and fleet modernization strategy, France aims to streamline pilot development from classroom to cockpit while introducing more efficient multi-mission aircraft.

The integration of the PC-24 fleet further underscores this approach, reflecting a long-term commitment to operational readiness and aviation autonomy across its naval aviation branch.

With these developments, the French Navy is positioning itself at the forefront of Europe’s evolving light-jet military capability, setting a model for flexible and cost-effective fleet modernization.