Getafe, Spain, 20 December 2024 – Spain has significantly bolstered its commitment to the Eurofighter Typhoon, announcing a major acquisition of 25 additional aircraft. This news signals a strong endorsement of the multirole fighter and its vital role in European air defense.
The contract, signed with the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA), will deliver 21 single-seat and four twin-seat Typhoons under the “Halcon II” program. This order follows a previous agreement in 2022 for 20 aircraft, bringing Spain’s total Eurofighter fleet to a substantial 115 jets. This expansion is crucial for replacing a portion of the Spanish Air and Space Force’s aging F-18 fleet.
Deliveries are slated to begin in 2030, and these cutting-edge aircraft promise to significantly enhance Spain’s air power capabilities, solidifying its position within NATO. The deal also provides a boost to the program’s industrial base, securing jobs and technological expertise.
Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, emphasized the Eurofighter’s status as the most advanced and successful European-produced fighter jet, highlighting its role as the “backbone of European air superiority.” He also stressed the importance of international cooperation in the program, showcasing how European nations can work together in the current defense landscape.
A Homegrown Effort with European Reach
All Spanish Eurofighters are assembled, tested, and delivered at Airbus’s Getafe site near Madrid. This local production translates into a significant economic impact, supporting over 16,000 direct and indirect jobs within Spain. Major national defense and technology companies are also deeply involved in the manufacturing process.
The Halcon Legacy: A Modernized Air Force
The Halcon program represents a substantial modernization effort for the Spanish Air and Space Force. The combined orders of 45 Eurofighters (20 from the 2022 deal and the new 25) will equip the force with advanced avionics, including electronically scanned radars (E-Scan), enhanced weapon systems capable of deploying Brimstone III and Full Meteor missiles, improved sensors, and enhanced connectivity. These advanced Typhoons will join the existing fleet of 70 aircraft starting in 2026.
Spain has been operating the Eurofighter since 2003, with aircraft based at Morón (11th Wing) near Seville and Los Llanos (14th Wing) in Albacete. The Gando Air Base (46th Wing) on the Canary Islands is also set to become a future Eurofighter operating location.
A European Success Story
The Eurofighter program has a significant impact across Europe, supporting over 100,000 jobs. This latest order, along with future technological advancements, will further secure these jobs and drive innovation within the program. To date, over 700 Eurofighters have been ordered by eight nations, cementing its status as a key player in global air defense.
(C) Airbus Defence and Space SAU 2024