Spain receives its first new combat search and rescue helicopter - Vequeway - Stay tuned for current events
The Spanish Air Force has delivered its first NH90 helicopter, aimed at upgrading its aging combat search and rescue fleet. NH Industries is a joint venture between Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo, and Fokker Technologies, and has delivered the first of 12 NH90 tactical transport helicopters, which will ultimately replace the AS332 Super Panther from Spain. According to a statement from Airbus on October 14th, these new aircraft will be based in Kutrovantos.
Madrid has received 13 NH90 rotary wing aircraft, which were prepared for the Spanish Army Air Force (FAMET) and provided by Airbus. The government has ordered all three armed forces to operate a total of 45 helicopters, divided into two contracts worth 1.26 billion euros (approximately 1.67 billion US dollars) and 1.38 billion euros (1.57 billion US dollars), respectively. A spokesperson for Airbus told Defense News that the Spanish Air Force expects to receive another NH90 helicopter in 2020 and an additional four in 2021. In the statement, Spanish Air Force General Javier Salto referred to the NH90 as an "important asset" that will support search and rescue missions under hostile conditions, "one of the most demanding and complex tasks for helicopter units. " It will also provide tactical transportation for the troops and logistical support for peacekeeping and reconstruction missions.
The Spanish NH90 variant aircraft is manufactured at Airbus Helicopters Espanya's factory in Albacete, which produces the fuselage, as well as avionics software and integration. The helicopter is equipped with a General Electric CT7 8F5 engine and a personalized communication system. Indra Sistemas from Spain provides electronic warfare systems, as well as training simulators, automatic maintenance equipment, and automatic mission planning systems.
NH Industries recently announced that it has signed a production contract for 10 upgraded NH90 helicopters for French special forces, with plans to deliver them in 2025 and 2026. The NH90 rotary wing aircraft is currently in use in 10 European countries, as well as Australia, New Zealand, Oman, and Qatar.