Babcock wins a 17-year contract, worth 795 million euros, to support the training of French army pilots.
Babcock France, a subsidiary of Babcock International Group, has signed a 17-year, €795 million contract with the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA). The aim of this partnership is to modernize pilot training for the French Air Force, the French Space Force and the French Navy. It includes the supply of 22 Pilatus PC-7 MkX aircraft, 12 simulators and associated technical support. Around 120 student pilots will benefit from this program each year at the Salon-de-Provence air base. At the same time, more than 100 jobs will be created in the regions concerned.
A strategic contract to modernize French flight training
The 17-year contract awarded by the DGA marks a significant step forward for military pilot training in France. With a budget of 795 million euros, this project aims to provide modern solutions to improve the efficiency and quality of training.
Babcock France will provide 22 Pilatus PC-7 MkX aircraft, renowned for their reliability and training-appropriate performance. These aircraft will be accompanied by 12 simulators, enabling training scenarios to be diversified and operational costs linked to real flights to be reduced. This equipment will provide 11,000 flight hours and 6,500 simulator hours per year.
The use of these advanced technologies is in line with the French army’s desire to harmonize its training with international standards. After initial training, pilots will specialize in combat or transport roles. This model is designed to ensure a smooth transition to advanced platforms such as the Rafale or the A400M Atlas.
Significant economic and regional implications
Beyond the technical aspects, the contract will have a significant economic impact on the Salon-de-Provence and Le Cannet-des-Maures regions. Over 100 new jobs will be created, covering a wide range of profiles such as engineers, technicians, project managers and administrators.
These jobs will support the logistical and technical operations required to maintain aircraft and simulator availability. This includes lifetime support for the equipment, guaranteeing its operability for the duration of the contract.
The project is also helping to strengthen the local industrial fabric, notably by working with specialized subcontractors. At the same time, it offers an opportunity to develop high-level technical skills within the teams, reinforcing the attractiveness of professions linked to military aeronautics.
Closer collaboration with the French Air Force
Since 2018, Babcock France has been working with the Cognac-Châteaubernard air base, where it has already supplied simulators and 26 PC-21 aircraft. This new phase of cooperation consolidates its role as the French army’s main partner for pilot training.
According to Pierre Basquin, CEO of Babcock Aviation, this contract underlines the importance of the French armed forces in national and international security. It also positions Babcock France as a key player in the development of fighter pilot training capacity.
The supply of such a program also reflects the French Air Force’s strategy of adopting integrated solutions, combining simulators and aircraft to maximize training efficiency.
Transformation prospects for military aeronautics
The integration of PC-7 MkX aircraft and simulators marks a turning point in aviation training. By using simulators for around 37% of planned training hours, the French army is significantly reducing operational costs while maintaining a high level of readiness.
This hybrid approach is particularly well-suited to a context of rationalizing military expenditure. With an annual defense budget set at 43.9 billion euros in 2024, France is seeking to optimize its investments while strengthening its strategic capabilities.
What’s more, this program could serve as a model for other European air forces interested in modern, efficient training solutions. The experience gained by Babcock France in this contract could open up export opportunities, strengthening France’s position in the global aerospace industry.
The contract between Babcock France and the French army symbolizes a major step forward in military pilot training. By combining modern technologies, regional economic support and a long-term strategic vision, this project lays the foundations for a sustainable transformation of the French military aeronautics industry. Thanks to targeted investments and solid partnerships, France is securing a leading position in aeronautical training, while meeting the challenges of tomorrow.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.