Aviation News – Spain’s Ministry of Defence has selected Airbus Defence and Space to lead the development of a new Integrated Training System for combat pilots, replacing the Air and Space Force’s ageing F-5 fleet and modernising advanced jet training nationwide.
The programme, known as ITS-C, will be delivered by Airbus as national coordinator in partnership with Turkish Aerospace, manufacturer of the HÜRJET jet trainer. Selected by the Spanish Ministry of Defence, the project includes the acquisition of 30 HÜRJET aircraft adapted with Spanish-specific systems and represents a key step in renewing Spain’s combat pilot training capability.
The new system will cover the entire advanced training phase for combat pilots, combining modern jet trainers, upgraded ground infrastructure, and an integrated set of operation and maintenance services. The programme includes the creation of an Aircraft Conversion Centre in Spain and the refurbishment of the Fighter and Attack School at Talavera la Real Air Base in Extremadura, enabling a seamless transition from training to frontline operations.
“This programme strengthens Spain’s industrial base while delivering a cutting-edge training capability for future combat pilots,” an Airbus Defence and Space spokesperson said, describing the ITS-C as a cornerstone for the next generation of Spanish Air and Space Force operations.
With implementation now moving forward, the system is expected to improve pilot readiness, interoperability with allied air forces, and long-term sustainability of training operations. It also reinforces industrial and defence cooperation between Spain and Turkey in the aerospace sector.
The selection of Airbus-led ITS-C marks a decisive step in modernising Spain’s combat pilot training. By replacing the F-5 fleet with an integrated, future-oriented training solution, Spain is positioning its Air and Space Force to meet evolving operational requirements well into the future.
