Full Breakdown
Airbus to Lead Development of Spain's New Combat Training System
12/30/2025, 8:12:16 PM
Overview of the Combat Integrated Training System
On December 30, 2025, the Spanish Ministry of Defence announced that Airbus Defence and Space has been selected to lead the development and implementation of the new Integrated Training System (ITS-C) for the Spanish Air and Space Force. This initiative aims to replace the aging fleet of F-5 aircraft and enhance the advanced training process for Spanish combat pilots. The contract is a collaborative effort between Airbus, serving as the national coordinator, and Turkish Aerospace, the manufacturer of the HÜRJET Jet Trainer.
Key Components of the Programme
The ITS-C programme encompasses several critical components, including the acquisition of 30 HÜRJET Jet Trainers, which will be converted to meet Spanish specifications. A new Aircraft Conversion Centre will be established in Spain, and the training facilities at Talavera la Real Air Base in Extremadura will undergo refurbishment. The programme is structured in two phases: the first phase involves the delivery of the 30 aircraft in their initial configuration, with certification and handover scheduled for 2028 and 2029. The second phase will focus on the conversion of the aircraft with national content, expected to be completed between 2031 and 2035.
National Industry Participation
Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space, emphasized the programme's ambition to create a state-of-the-art combat training system that addresses the immediate needs of the Air and Space Force. He noted that the initiative will also boost participation from national industry, enhance return on investment, and ensure capability development, thereby maintaining Spanish sovereignty throughout the process. The conversion work will involve various Spanish technology and defence companies, focusing on mission and training systems, avionics, and simulation technologies.
Ground-Based Training System
In addition to the aircraft acquisition and conversion, the programme includes plans for a new Ground Based Training System (GBTS) to be developed by Airbus, with contributions from other Spanish industry representatives. This system is set to be operational by 2028 at the Talavera la Real Air Base and will feature advanced simulation capabilities, including mission simulators and virtual reality training environments.
Official Statements
The Spanish Ministry of Defence has expressed confidence in the partnership with Airbus and Turkish Aerospace, highlighting the strategic importance of the ITS-C programme for national defense capabilities. The initiative is seen as a significant step towards modernizing Spain's military training infrastructure.
Criticism & Opposition
While the programme has received support from various stakeholders, some critics have raised concerns regarding the reliance on foreign technology and the potential implications for domestic defense capabilities. The effectiveness of the conversion process and the integration of Spanish content into the HÜRJET aircraft remain points of scrutiny.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This ambitious programme seeks to create a state-of-the-art combat training system in Spain that addresses the immediate needs of the Air and Space Force.” — Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space.
