Spain Combat Training System Programme Announced

Combat Training System to Support Pilot Training in Spain

Airbus is leading a group of Spanish companies in developing a new Integrated Combat Training System (ITS-C) for the Spanish Air and Space Force. The programme, awarded in December 2025, is set to replace the current F-5 fleet and includes significant participation from the national industry.

The ITS-C programme is based on a co-development agreement between Airbus and Turkish Aerospace Industries, which manufactures the HÜRJET training aircraft. The project covers the full advanced training process for fighter pilots, including the customisation of a 30-aircraft fleet designated SAETA II, along with integrated operational and maintenance support.

Training Infrastructure and Development

As part of the programme, Airbus will lead the redesign of the Fighter and Strike training centre at Talavera la Real Air Base in Extremadura. The upgraded facility will include simulators developed in collaboration with Indra Sistemas, along with systems to support the operations and maintenance of both aircraft and training platforms.

Programme Phases

The programme will be implemented in two phases. The first phase, expected to begin in 2028, includes the delivery of an initial batch of 21 aircraft. One aircraft will be used as a prototype for integrating updated avionics and mission systems. At the same time, a ground-based training system will be developed, with entry into operation planned for the 2029–2030 academic year.

In the second phase, the initial aircraft and the remaining nine units will be adapted to Spanish specifications. Deliveries of the SAETA II aircraft and associated training systems are scheduled for 2031-2035.

Industry Participation

Spanish companies will be involved across different areas of the programme, including systems integration, avionics, data systems and maintenance support. Organisations such as GMV, Sener, Aertec, Grupo Oesía, Orbital and Indra will contribute to various technical components, including navigation systems, data links, mission recording and identification systems.

The Airbus programme reflects a coordinated approach to developing training capabilities while supporting industrial activity across the defence and aerospace sector in Spain.

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