The Pilatus PC-9 is a much more powerful evolution of the PC-7. The PC-9 program began in May 1982, with some aerodynamic elements tested on the PC-7 in 1982/83. The first pre-production PC-9 flew on  May 7, 1984, and the second followed two months later on July 20. This one was almost fully representative of the production version, with electronic flight instrumentation and environmental control systems installed. Aerobatic certification was achieved in September 1985.

In 1997, the PC-9M was introduced as the new standard model. It features an enlarged dorsal fin to improve longitudinal stability, modified wing root fairings, stall strips on the leading edges and new engine/propeller controls.

Raytheon T-6A Texan II

On June 22, 1995 a considerably redesigned version of the PC-9 was declared the winner of the JPATS competition to select a standard training aircraft type to be used by both the USAF and US Navy. Approximately 780 aircraft in total will be required under this program, built under license as the Raytheon T-6A Texan II.

Pilatus PC-21

According to Pilatus, the Pilatus PC-21 is designed to maximize training efficiency by combining economies of turboprop operation with high aerodynamic performance and a state-of-the-art training system.