Pilatus Aircraft Ltd announced formal handing over of the PC-7 MkII turbo trainer aircraft to the Botswana Defence Force in Gaborone.

The President of the Republic of Botswana and Commander-in-Chief, Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama, and senior officials attended the handing over ceremony hosted by the Botswana Defence Force Commander Lt General Galebotswe.

This major milestone marks the successful completion of the delivery and entry into service of the five new BDF Pilatus PC-7 MkII aircraft. Pilatus Chairman Oscar J. Schwenk noted that the relationship between the Botswana Defence Force and Pilatus dates back to 1989 when the supply contract for seven PC-7 trainer aircraft was signed.

A relationship that became gradually stronger once the first aircraft became operational in 1990, 22 years ago. After two decades of successful operation with more than 28,000 hours flown and more than 70,000 landings recorded the ageing PC-7 aircraft reached the end of their operating life.

In 2011, the BDF opted to replace the PC-7 with the more advanced and modern PC-7 MkII trainer aircraft, a decision we believe was founded on the established relationship between us, the excellent track record of the PC-7, and a proven product such as the PC-7 MkII of which more than 160 aircraft have been sold. The PC-7 MkII has also been selected by other major air forces, the most recent order, subsequent to Botswana, being India.