Aviation News – Airbus and a consortium of Spanish industrial partners have officially unveiled the blueprint for the Integrated Combat Training System (ITS-C), a $3 billion initiative to modernize pilot training for the Spanish Air and Space Force. The program centers on the acquisition of the SAETA II, a high-performance jet designed to replace the nation’s retiring fleet of Northrop F-5M aircraft.
The project is governed by a €2.6 billion contract signed in December 2025, positioning Airbus as the primary contractor in a strategic co-development agreement with Turkish Aerospace. This partnership utilizes the Turkish Hürjet advanced jet trainer as the foundational platform for the Spanish system. By combining international manufacturing expertise with local industrial capabilities, the consortium aims to deliver a tailored solution that strengthens Spain’s aerospace sector and defense autonomy.
Under the agreement, the Spanish Air and Space Force will receive 30 aircraft customized to meet specific national requirements. These modifications focus on advanced avionics and specialized mission systems to ensure the fleet integrates seamlessly into the modern training pipeline. The transition marks the final chapter for the Northrop F-5M, which has served as the backbone of fast-jet instruction in Spain since the late 1960s.
The SAETA II functions as a bridge to fifth-generation fighters, offering a sophisticated digital cockpit and an integrated package of operation and maintenance services. This technical ecosystem allows student pilots to master complex combat scenarios in a controlled environment before moving to front-line squadrons. The introduction of these trainers will significantly enhance operational readiness by providing a more reliable and technologically relevant platform for the next generation of aviators.
