Spain has ordered 25 additional Eurofighter aircraft from the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency. The deal, known as the Halcon II program, includes 21 single-seat and four twin-seat aircraft that will replace part of the Spanish Air and Space Force’s aging F-18 fleet.
Eurofighter Fleet Expansion
Approved by Spain’s Council of Ministers in 2023, the latest acquisition expands a previous 2022 contract for 20 Eurofighters, increasing Spain’s total Eurofighter fleet to 115 aircraft. Deliveries of the aircraft, engines and support services will begin in 2030.
The Eurofighter program is a collaboration between Airbus in France, BAE Systems in the United Kingdom and Leonardo in Italy.
According to Airbus Defence and Space CEO Mike Schoellhorn, the Eurofighter has advanced capabilities and importance to European industrial defense cooperation.
“We are grateful for the trust of the Spanish government in our Eurofighter and in Airbus Defence and Space,” the chief executive said in remarks acknowledging the new deal. “Not only is this order an important demand and defense signal, it secures the supply chain in Spain and across Europe.”
Advanced Avionics for Europe
Airbus said the new Eurofighters under Madrid’s Halcon II program will feature advanced avionics, electronically scanning radars, improved weapon systems and enhanced connectivity. Starting in 2026, the aircraft will operate alongside the Spanish Air Force’s existing 70 Eurofighters.
The Eurofighter program aims to modernize the air forces of partner nations. Germany’s Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug manages program coordination, while NETMA serves as the liaison for customers and governments. With over 100,000 workers involved, it is Europe’s largest military joint program.
There are over 600 operational Eurofighter aircraft worldwide, with new customers in Austria, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait.