Spain has finalized a deal with the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) for 25 Eurofighter aircraft. Under the Halcon II program, the agreement includes the delivery of 21 single-seat and four twin-seat jets, intended to replace part of the Spanish Air and Space Force’s aging F-18 fleet. This is a notable addition to the Spain Eurofighter project, aimed at enhancing air defense.
This deal builds on an earlier 2022 agreement for 20 fighter jets, bringing Spain’s Eurofighter fleet to 115 aircraft. The new additions will enhance Spain’s defense capabilities and its strategic role within NATO.
The Eurofighter jets ordered under this program will be assembled, tested, and delivered at the Airbus facility in Getafe, Madrid. This process sustains more than 16,000 jobs in Spain and involves collaboration with key national defense and technology companies, pivotal to the Spain Eurofighter initiative.
Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, stated, “The Eurofighter is the most advanced and the most successful fighter jet from European production and is the backbone of European air superiority. It is also a symbol of industrial cooperation between nations and companies – an example of how Europe can work in our current defence context. We are grateful for the trust of the Spanish government in our Eurofighter and in Airbus Defence and Space. Not only is this order an important demand and defence signal, it secures the supply chain in Spain and across Europe.”
The Spanish government approved this acquisition in September 2023, covering the aircraft, engines, and necessary support services.
Enhancing Spain’s Airpower
Spain’s Eurofighter program reflects its commitment to modernizing its defense systems. Since 2003, the Spanish Air Force has operated Eurofighters from bases at Morón (11th Wing) near Seville and Los Llanos (14th Wing) in Albacete. Soon, the base at Gando (46th Wing) in the Canary Islands will join as an operational site for these advanced jets, further bolstering the Spain Eurofighter capabilities.
As part of the Halcon II program, Spain will receive Eurofighters equipped with advanced avionics, electronically scanning radar (E-Scan), enhanced weapon systems such as Brimstone III and Full Meteor, and improved connectivity. The first batch of these jets will be operational by 2030, joining the existing fleet and providing improved performance for national defense.
Global Reach of the Eurofighter
The Eurofighter program has achieved widespread adoption, with over 700 aircraft ordered by eight nations, including Spain where the Eurofighter fleet is steadily growing. Currently, these jets serve 23 operators worldwide. The program has secured more than 100,000 jobs across Europe, fostering industrial growth and innovation in defense technology.
The Halcon II program reinforces Spain’s position as a leader in European defense while supporting broader security efforts within NATO.
