Spain’s Government Signs Contract with Airbus for 25 Eurofighter Aircraft
The Government of Spain has signed a contract with the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA), based in Munich, for the acquisition of 25 Eurofighter aircraft manufactured by Airbus. These will replace part of the current fleet of F-18s operated by the Spanish Air and Space Force.
Specifically, this order is part of the program known as Halcon II, and includes the delivery of 21 single-seat and four twin-seat next-generation aircraft. This contract, together with a previous one signed in 2022 for another batch of 20 fighters, will increase Spain’s Eurofighter fleet to 115 aircraft.
First Deliveries Expected in 2030
With the first delivery scheduled for 2030, these new fighters will enhance the operational capabilities of the Spanish Air and Space Force, strengthen its position within NATO, and secure the industrial footprint of this key defense program. In this regard, Airbus Defense and Space CEO Mike Schoellhorn highlighted that, “The Eurofighter is Europe’s most advanced and successful fighter aircraft, and it represents the backbone of European air superiority.”
He added, “It’s also a symbol of industrial cooperation between nations and companies — an example of how Europe can collaborate in today’s defense context.”
All Spanish Eurofighters are assembled, tested, and delivered at Airbus facilities in Getafe (Madrid). The program supports over 16,000 direct and indirect jobs in Spain. The acquisition was approved by the Spanish Council of Ministers in September 2023, covering the aircraft, engines, and support services.
Commitment to Spanish Defense Industry Quality
At the contract signing event with Airbus, Defense Minister Margarita Robles reaffirmed, “The Spanish Government’s commitment to investment in defense is unequivocal.” She also emphasized “the outstanding quality of the Spanish defense industry, which allows us to meet our government’s commitments within the EU and NATO, and to be held in high regard as a reliable and serious partner.”
Meanwhile, Secretary of State for Defense Amparo Valcarce also underscored Spain’s determination to work and build synergies with other European countries, “sharing knowledge and resources that make projects like this possible.”
“We are talking about security and prosperity, contributing to the country’s economic growth and job creation, while guaranteeing the capabilities of our Armed Forces,” Valcarce said, calling the agreement “a milestone for our national defense and for our aerospace industry.”
Source: Cadena SER
