DefenseSpain orders 100 Airbus helicopters under National Helicopter Plan
The Spanish Ministry of Defense, through the Directorate General of Armament and Material (DGAM), placed orders for 100 helicopters with Airbus. The contracts were announced in May as part of Spain’s National Helicopter Plan.
The acquisition comprises 13 H135s, 50 H145Ms, 6 H175Ms, and 31 NH90s. The procurement aims to modernize Spain’s defense and security helicopter fleet.
H135 helicopters will be allocated for pilot training, light utility, and observation missions. This segment supports the development and operational readiness of aircrews across Spain’s armed forces.
The H145M fleet will be delivered to the Spanish Army for military training, light attack, and disaster relief operations. These aircraft are intended to enhance flexibility in both combat and humanitarian roles.
Six H175Ms will replace aging government fleets and perform a range of governmental missions. The NH90s will be used primarily for tactical transport and special operations, reinforcing Spain’s rapid deployment and support capabilities.
The National Helicopter Plan marks a coordinated effort to update the Spanish military’s rotary-wing assets following years of reliance on legacy platforms, some of which date back several decades.
“By formalising these contracts, the Ministry of Defence fulfils its commitment to provide our Armed Forces with the latest generation of helicopters that are essential for their operations,” stated María Amparo Valcarce García, Secretary of State for Defence.
“This award is the tangible realisation of the National Helicopter Plan and the programmes included represent a qualitative shift in the capabilities of the Armed Forces. We are proud to be strengthening Spain’s national defence and security resilience,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.
About the Author
Ricardo Meier
Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.
