Spain has made a significant step in modernizing its military capabilities by approving the procurement of 100 Airbus helicopters, marking the largest rotary-wing acquisition to date under the Directorate General for Armament and Material. This acquisition aligns with the National Helicopter Plan, which was unveiled in May, and aims to upgrade the military aviation fleet while phasing out outdated aircraft.
The purchase encompasses four distinct types of Airbus helicopters that will serve various branches of the armed forces, fulfilling roles ranging from training and transport to combat support and governmental operations. María Amparo Valcarce García, the Secretary of State for Defence, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, stating that it aims to substantially enhance Spain’s security and defense capabilities, thereby ensuring national strategic autonomy in a crucial sector of European defense.
The contract details reveal the specific allocations of the helicopters:
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H135 Helicopters: A total of 13 helicopters, with 12 designated for the air and space force and one for the navy, will be primarily utilized for advanced pilot training and light utility and observation missions.
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H145M Helicopters: The Spanish Army Aviation command is set to receive 50 of these helicopters, which will support a diverse range of missions. These include military pilot training, light attack operations utilizing the HForce weapon management system, utility transport, and disaster response. The H145M will also play a complementary role alongside the Spanish Army’s Tiger attack helicopters in lower-intensity combat and support functions.
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H175M Helicopters: Six super-medium helicopters have been allocated to the air and space force for government and strategic transport. This upgrade will facilitate the transport of senior authorities, replacing older models currently in operation by Wing 48, responsible for governmental transport missions.
- NH90 Helicopters: The acquisition also includes 31 NH90 helicopters, with 13 slated for the army, 12 for the air and space force, and six for the navy. These helicopters will engage in tactical transport and special operations, while the naval variant aims to bolster Spain’s amphibious warfare and shipborne transport capabilities.
This comprehensive procurement underscores Spain’s commitment to enhancing its defense infrastructure and operational readiness as it navigates increasingly complex security challenges.
