Story and image from Airbus
Getafe, Madrid, Spain, December 20, 2024 – The Spanish government has signed a contract with Munich-based, Germany, NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) for the acquisition of 25 Eurofighter aircraft. Known as the Halcon II program, the order will cover the delivery of 21 latest-generation single-seat and four twin-seat Eurofighter aircraft to replace part of the F-18 fleet operated by the Spanish Air and Space Force.
The agreement, which follows a previous contract signed in 2022 for a batch of 20 fighter jets, will see the Spanish Eurofighter fleet grow to 115 aircraft. With the first delivery due in 2030, these new aircraft will:
- Boost Spain’s air-power capabilities and operations
- Reinforce its prominent position at the heart of NATO
- Secure the program’s industrial footprint.
All Spanish Eurofighters are assembled, tested and delivered at the Airbus Getafe site (Madrid-Spain) and its industrial footprint translates into more than 16,000 direct and indirect jobs in Spain alone. The main national defence and technological companies are involved in the manufacturing process.
The acquisition was approved by Spain’s Council of Ministers in September 2023 and includes the aircraft, engines, and the necessary support services.