Spain has taken a major step to enhance its maritime security and surveillance capabilities by signing a $1.6 billion deal with Airbus for the procurement of 16 C-295 aircraft. The Spanish Air Force and Navy will operate the new fleet, which is expected to significantly boost the country’s national defense, particularly in anti-submarine warfare and reconnaissance missions.

Most of the C-295s will be deployed in maritime patrol and surveillance roles. According to Airbus Defence & Space CEO Mike Schoellhorn, the aircraft will be designed and manufactured entirely in Spain, with the maritime patrol version representing the most advanced C-295 configuration to date. Equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, weapon systems, and electronic suites, the aircraft will support anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. They will also replace Spain’s retired P-3 Orion fleet, which was decommissioned at the end of 2022, filling a critical capability gap.

The agreement goes beyond aircraft procurement, including advanced training systems and an initial logistics support package. This will enable the Spanish Air Force and Navy to enhance their training standards and strengthen their operational readiness. With Airbus integrating the latest technologies into the fleet, Spain will gain a distinct operational advantage in both national and regional security.

In addition, this procurement strengthens Spain’s role within NATO, contributing to collective security while modernizing its own defense capabilities for the long term.