The Spanish naval aviation modernization program continues to make rapid progress. The Spanish Navy has confirmed that before the end of the year it will receive a new tactical helicopter unit NH90 MSPT (Maritime Spain Tactical Transport), thus consolidating a long-planned transition to more versatile and technologically advanced platforms.
This incorporation is part of the contract signed with Airbus Helicopters as part of the renewal of rotary wings, a strategic priority to guarantee the operability of naval forces in very demanding scenarios.
A key program for naval aviation
The NH90 MSPT represents the variant specifically adapted to the needs of the Spanish Navy. Designed to operate from ships and naval bases, this model combines tactical transport capabilities, support for amphibious operations and maritime search and rescue missions.
Delivery scheduled for the end of 2025 corresponds to the third unit of a first batch of seven helicopters assigned to the Navy. This step reinforces the timetable agreed between Airbus and the Ministry of Defense, which envisages a staggered reception of the aircraft.
Operational assignment and deployment base
The NH90 MSPT are intended to be integrated into Aircraft fleet (FLOAN)based on the Rota Naval Base. From this strategic installation, the new aircraft operate as a central element of the embarked air component, ensuring rapid response both in domestic waters and during international deployments.
The arrival of the first two units, materialized in June 2025, marked the operational start of the model within the Navy, allowing progress in the training of crews and technical staff.
Replacement of a historic fleet
The entry into service of the NH90 MSPT represents a qualitative leap compared to helicopters Sea King SH-3Dwhich have been a fundamental element of Spanish naval aviation for decades. These aircraft, recently decommissioned, had reached the end of their operational life after years of continuous service.
The replacement not only meets age criteria, but also the need to incorporate platforms with greater autonomy, greater load capacity, interoperability with allies and latest generation avionics systems.
Expanded operational capabilities
The main missions of the NH90 MSPT include:
- Tactical transport of troops and equipment.
- Direct support for amphibious operations.
- Medical evacuation in the maritime environment.
- Search and rescue missions.
- Support for maritime security operations.
These capabilities allow the Spanish Navy to increase its operational flexibility and adapt to rapid response scenarios both at the national level and within the framework of international commitments.
Delivery schedule until 2026
With the third unit scheduled for the end of 2025, the program envisages receipt of the remaining four aircraft from the first batch throughout 2026. This schedule will allow the model to gradually reach full operational capability within the NAFLD.
Phased planning facilitates the technical, logistical and doctrinal integration of the NH90 MSPT, thereby reducing risks and optimizing resources.
Fleet expansion prospects
Beyond the first contract, the regulatory framework approved by the Royal Decree 848/2025 is considering the acquisition of a second batch of NH90 helicopters. This package, part of an overall purchase of up to 105 aircraft for the armed forces, would include 32 additional units of the model.
Although official documentation does not specify the exact distribution between the three armies, various forecasts suggest that the Spanish Navy could incorporate up to six additional helicopters, with the aim of reaching a total strength of thirteen units.
The possibility of a third batch is even being considered in the preliminary phase of negotiation, which would consolidate the NH90 as the central axis of Spanish naval aviation for decades to come.
With each new delivery, the Spanish Navy strengthens its projection, response and operational sustainment capacity, ensuring that the NH90 MSPT become the undisputed protagonists of the maritime and amphibious future of the Armed Forces.
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