Albacete, 29 May 2025 – Airbus Helicopters has officially delivered the first two NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters (MSPT for Multi-Role Support Transport) to the Spanish Navy from its Albacete facility. These two helicopters are the first of seven navalised NH90s acquired as part of the second batch of Spain’s NH90 programme, which totals 23 aircraft.
The MSPT variant of the NH90 is specifically designed to meet the rigorous operational requirements of the Spanish Navy for amphibious tactical transport. Key enhancements include a reinforced landing gear, specific naval communications and navigation equipment as well as automatic folding systems for the main rotor blades and rear fuselage, optimising the helicopter for shipboard operations. These features will enable the NH90 to transport up to 20 fully equipped troops or a light vehicle, and conduct IFR (instrument flight rules) operations with a single pilot, even in challenging night-time conditions and adverse weather.
"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," said Fernando Lombo, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Spain. "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."
With this delivery, all three Spanish military branches—the Army, the Air and Space Force, and now the Navy— have NH90s in their fleets. This common military platform underscores the versatility and strategic importance of the NH90 across Spain's defence forces and its industrial landscape.
On May 13, the Spanish Ministry of Defence and Airbus Helicopters signed a framework agreement for the implementation of the Spanish National Helicopter Plan, which foresees a further expansion of NH90 fleets for the Armed Forces.
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