Delivery Part Of Seven Ordered In Second Batch Of Program

Airbus Helicopters delivered the first two of seven NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters to the Spanish Navy as part of the second batch in the service’s NH90 program which will total 23 aircraft when completed.

The multi-role support transport, or MSPT, helicopters were built in Airbus’ facility in Albacete and are specifically designed to meet the operational needs of the Spanish Navy for amphibious tactical transport. Mods include reinforced landing gear, naval communications and navigation equipment, and automatic folding systems for the main rotor blades and rear fuselage to optimize the aircraft for shipboard ops.

The enhancements enable the NH90 to transport as many as 20 fully equipped troops or a light vehicle as well as single-pilot IFR flight at night and challenging weather.

Now, all three branches of the Spanish military – Army, Air Force, and Space Force – have NH90s in their fleets. The military platform demonstrates the versatility and strategic utility of the aircraft for Spain’s industrial and defense forces.

Fernando Lombo, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Spain, said, "The delivery of the first NH90 MSPT helicopters is proof of the strong collaboration between the Directorate General of Armament and Material (DGAM), the Spanish Navy, and Airbus Helicopters.

“Thanks to this excellent cooperation, we've been able to conduct the training of Navy crews at our Albacete base, ensuring the helicopters can enter service at Rota Naval Base this summer, as planned for the Navy's operational readiness. All our teams remain fully mobilised to ensure a smooth entry into service. Congratulations to the new operator."

In May, the Spanish Defense Ministry and Airbus Helicopters entered into an agreement to support the Spanish National Helicopter Plan which will involve further expansion of the NH90 fleet across the nation’s Armed Forces.

FMI:  www.airbus.com/