Qatar receives first batch of PC-21 aircraft

As reported earlier
http://www.asiandefencenews.com/2014/08/pilatus-to-deliver-pc-21-trainer.html


Photo - Stephan Widmer  (http://www.spotting-pilatus-aircraft.ch/)

Photo - Qatar Emiri Air Force

The Qatar Emiri Air Force, represented by Al Zaeem (Leader) Mohamed bin Abdullah al-Attiyah Air College, has received the first batch of the Swiss trainer aircraft – the Pilatus PC-21.This is in line with a directive from HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to modernise and develop the country’s air force.

Under the patronage of HE the Minister of State for Defence Affairs Major General Hamad bin Ali al-Attiyah and HE the Chief of Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces Major General (Pilot) Ghanim bin Shaheen al-Ghanim, the Swiss training aircraft were received by Major General (Pilot) Mubarak bin Mohamed al-Kumait al-Khayarin, Commander of the Qatar Emiri Air Force, and Brigadier (Pilot) Salim Hamad al-Nabit, Commander of Al Zaeem (Leader) Mohamed bin Abdullah al-Attiyah Air College, in addition to a number of senior commanders and officers.

The commander of the Qatar Emiri Air Force expressed pride at the use of this advanced aircraft for training fighter pilots to defend the country, highlighting the vision of the wise leadership in selecting the world’s best and most modern training equipment. He stressed that the arrival of the PC-21 marked a successful moment for all, thanks to the continued guidance of HE the Minister of State for Defence Affairs and HE the Chief of Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces.

The commander of the Air College expressed confidence in the college and its trainers with regard to the graduation of pilots with the highest global standards.Gulf Times had reported in August that the Pilatus aircraft manufacturer landed a major deal two years ago, which included the sale of a fleet of 24 PC-21 trainer planes to Qatar, as well as a package of ground-based training tools, logistical support and maintenance.

The PC-21 trainer aircraft is designed to fulfil the requirements for basic, advanced and fighter lead-in training for pilots and, if required, weapon systems officers, according to the report.

The aircraft is fitted with a fully digital glass cockpit with head-up displays, an up-front control panel, hands-on throttle and stick control and full sized multi-function displays giving a similar cockpit environment to current generation fighters, such as the AV-8B, F-16, F/A-18 and Gripen, the report further explained.