The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force & Air Defence (AF&AD) will purchase a fleet of 25 PC-21 trainer aircraft from Pilatus.

The over $494m (CHF500m) contract also includes order for an integrated ground based training system and a comprehensive logistics support package.

The trainer will allow the AF&AD to conduct basic and advanced flying training to keep pace with the fourth generation aircraft already in service in the front line squadrons.

The delivery of the aircraft and the complete training system is due to begin in 2011.