Spain Invests €1,4 billion in TAI Hürjet Programme
On 27 June 2025, Spanish Minister of Defence Margarita Robles informed the Senate Defence Committee about the new advanced trainer aircraft programme. The new trainer will replace the Northrop SF-5M, currently operated by Ala 23 at Badajoz/Talavera la Real.
In December 2024, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the co-development of the TAI Hürjet was signed between the Spanish Secretary for Defence and the Turkish ambassador to Spain. On 14 May 2025, during the International Defence and Security Exhibition of Spain (FEINDEF), an industrial plan was formalised between Airbus, Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), and fifteen Spanish companies participating in the programme.
As explained by the minister, the programme will involve an investment of €1,4 billion, enabling “the development and acquisition of training capabilities for Spanish pilots, including an air segment of 28 to 30 aircraft for pilot instruction and operational flight training.” Spanish industry will also implement a comprehensive Ground-Based Training System (GBTS).
While the MoUs confirm intent and industrial cooperation, a binding sales contract has yet to be signed. Final procurement approval and contract formalisation are expected in the coming months of 2025.
The first six aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2028, followed by additional units through 2029 to reach a total of eighteen. The GBTS will be introduced alongside aircraft deliveries, and the first jets will arrive “already Spanishised,” incorporating agreed modifications. Final aircraft deliveries are projected for 2030–2031.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that Türkiye may acquire six Airbus A400M transport aircraft from Spain as part of the broader defence collaboration.
Credit photo: Airbus Defence