Texan II converted to Irish Air Corps Pilatus PC-9M with Hamilton Hobbies conversion set 1.48

Feature Article with Gerry Doyle

Just before we get going, here’s a look at how it all turned out…

Also…
I managed to get a photo walkaround and you can find that in SMN’s Photo Reference Library.

The PC-9 entered service with the Irish Air Corps in 2004 after an extensive process to procure a replacement for the aging Fouga Magister fleet in a advanced training and close air support role.

(Photo: Pilatus PC-9 of the Irish Air Corp flying in formation, 9 September 2013. Courtesy Irish Defence Forces)

As with its cousins, the Tucano and Texan II the PC-9 is a very capable aircraft powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-62 Turbo Prop engine that gives a 275 knot cruising speed and 320 knot max at a service ceiling of 25,000 Ft to a range of 850 miles. The cockpit is furnished with Electronic Flight Instrumentation System (EFIS), Head Up Display (HUD) and Martin Baker C6 A ejection seats. Armament comes in the form of 2 X 70mm FN LAV7 rocket pods and 2 X 5” FN HMG gun pods with 250 rounds per pod. Ferry Tanks can also be fitted.

In recent years the IAC PC-9s can be seen on the airshow circuit in the British Isles as the Silver Swallows, a nod to the brilliant aerobatic team of the late 80s which wowed crowds with the aforementioned Fouga Magister.

I was lucky enough a few years ago to be granted access to the service hanger and got to walk around up close and personal. The photos can be found by clicking the link above to SMN’s Photo Reference Library.

Read on…