Babcock France, a subsidiary of Babcock International Group, has secured a 17-year contract to deliver and support military air training solutions for the French Air and Space Force as well as the French Navy.
The contract valued at EUR 795 million and granted by the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA), will facilitate the training of student pilots on 22 new PC-7 MkX Pilatus aircraft and 12 training simulators supplied by Babcock France at the Salon-de-Provence Air Base. This training will prepare them for specialization as either fighter or transport pilots.
In addition to supplying the aircraft and simulators, the contract encompasses comprehensive support for the aircraft, infrastructure, and pilot equipment throughout their operational life. It is expected to generate over 100 new positions in the regions of Salon-de-Provence and Le Cannet-des-Maures, including roles for engineers, technicians, project managers, and administrators, who will assist in delivering nearly 11,000 flight hours and 6,500 simulator training hours to around 120 students annually.
Since 2018, Babcock France has collaborated with the French Air and Space Force to implement advanced training systems utilizing flight simulators and 26 existing PC-21 aircraft at the Cognac-Châteaubernard Air Base.
