Spain’s Armed Forces unite under NH90 helicopter system - a major milestone in military aviation

Spain’s Armed Forces unite under NH90 helicopter system Army, Air and Space Force, and Navy now operating the same platform

2025-09-08 Source: Airbus 1 min Reading Time

Spain has reached a significant milestone in its military aviation modernisation: for the first time in history, all three branches of the Spanish Armed Forces – the Army, the Air and Space Force, and the Navy – now operate the NH90 helicopter.

NH90 helicopters in service across all branches of the Spanish Armed Forces. The platform has proven its versatility in national disaster relief operations and international deployments.(Source: Airbus Helicopters) — NH90 helicopters in service across all branches of the Spanish Armed Forces. The platform has proven its versatility in national disaster relief operations and international deployments.
(Source: Airbus Helicopters)

The first NH90 in the Standard 3 configuration was delivered to the Spanish Air and Space Force in December 2024, introducing major protection upgrades such as Mode 5 IFF capability, directional infrared countermeasures, advanced communications systems, and improved operational safety. Describing the NH90 as “the future,” Major Cristina Pampliega, Commander of the 803rd Squadron, highlighted its role as a “hugely important generational leap” for Spain’s military aviation capabilities.

The Navy received its first NH90s in July 2025 at the Rota Naval Station, where the newly established 14th Aircraft Squadron had already completed training to prepare for operations. According to Frigate Captain Javier Moreno, the aircraft will be used for troop transport missions and special operations, with three NH90s arriving in 2025 and four more set for delivery in 2026.

Beyond national operations, the NH90 has already proven its value in disaster relief and overseas deployments. During severe floods in Valencia in October 2024, the helicopters were deployed for rescue missions, logistics support, and reconnaissance efforts. On international missions, including in Mali, the NH90 demonstrated high operational readiness despite extreme weather and terrain challenges.

Spain also plays a key industrial role in the NH90 programme, producing all front and centre fuselages and performing pre-assembly work. Around 200 employees at Airbus Helicopters’ sites in Getafe and Albacete are involved in engineering, production, and maintenance activities. The framework agreement signed in May 2025 under the Spanish National Helicopter Plan ensures further fleet expansion and long-term industrial benefits for Spain.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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