Spain orders 25 new Eurofighter jets to modernize air force

The Spanish government has signed a contract with the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) based in Munich, Germany, to acquire 25 Eurofighter jets.

This order, part of the Halcon II program, will include 21 advanced single-seat and four twin-seat Eurofighter aircraft, intended to replace a portion of the Spanish Air and Space Force's F-18 fleet, Caliber.Az reports per foreign sources.

Building on a previous agreement from 2022 for 20 jets, this new deal will expand Spain’s Eurofighter fleet to 115 aircraft. The first deliveries are scheduled for 2030. These new jets will enhance Spain’s air capabilities, strengthen its position within NATO, and support the continuation of the program’s industrial development.

Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, commented, “The Eurofighter is Europe’s most advanced and successful fighter jet, representing both air superiority and industrial cooperation among nations and companies. We appreciate the Spanish government's confidence in the Eurofighter and Airbus Defence and Space. This order is a significant defense commitment and helps secure the supply chain across Spain and Europe.”

All Eurofighters for Spain are assembled, tested, and delivered at Airbus's Getafe facility near Madrid. This process supports over 16,000 direct and indirect jobs in Spain, involving key national defense and technology companies.

The acquisition, approved by Spain’s Council of Ministers in September 2023, includes the aircraft, engines, and essential support services.

By Vafa Guliyeva