Airbus Unveils Integrated Combat Training System for Spanish Air and Space Force

Spain’s Leap into the Future: The Integrated Combat Training System (ITS-C)

Getafe, Spain, April 28, 2026 – In a significant stride towards modernizing military training, an Airbus-led consortium of Spanish aerospace companies unveiled the industrial programme for the Spanish Air and Space Force’s new Integrated Combat Training System (ITS-C). This ambitious project aims to replace the aging fleet of F-5 aircraft, reinforcing Spain’s commitment to technological advancement and national sovereignty in defense capabilities.

The Backbone of the Programme

Awarded in December 2025, the ITS-C programme features a remarkable 60% participation from the national industry, showcasing Spain’s ability to innovate and collaborate in the defense sector. At the helm of this initiative is Airbus, acting as the prime contractor in conjunction with Turkish Aerospace (TA), the manufacturer of the advanced HÜRJET training aircraft. The partnership focuses on creating a robust framework for training future Spanish fighter pilots.

The initiative encompasses extensive training operations, highlighting a fleet of 30 specially customized aircraft, nationally designated as the SAETA II. This new system will not only provide enhanced training for pilots but will also ensure the support and maintenance structures are integrated into the overall programme.

Upgrading Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Vision

Central to the ITS-C is the redesign of the Fighter and Strike School Training Centre at Talavera la Real Air Base in Extremadura. This transformation will include cutting-edge simulators developed in partnership with Indra, a move aimed at maximizing operational readiness and maintenance efficiency of both the aircraft and the accompanying synthetic training systems.

Marta Nogueira, Head of Business Spain at Airbus Defence and Space, articulated the strategic significance of this program, asserting that it offers Spain three key milestones: technology transfer, industrial return, and the essential sovereignty to manage ongoing system maintenance and future developments.

Strengthening National Interests

Spanish Secretary of State for Defence, Amparo Valcarce, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the program’s national focus. "It is a project that mobilizes our industry, generates knowledge, employment, and opportunities throughout the entire value chain," she stated, reinforcing Spain’s intent to reduce dependencies on foreign systems. The initiative clearly emphasizes the capability and readiness of Spain’s industry to design and implement complex defense systems.

A Two-Phase Implementation Plan

The ITS-C rollout will occur in two main phases. The initial phase, commencing in 2028, will see the delivery of 21 aircraft, with one designated as a prototype for next-generation avionics and mission equipment. Concurrently, a ground-based training system is in the works, expected to enhance training effectiveness during the 2029-2030 academic year.

Following this, the second phase will convert all 21 aircraft to meet Spanish standards, along with integrating updates into the simulators. The complete deployment of the SAETA II variant—along with the associated training systems—is slated for 2031-2035.

Technological Independence

The ITS-C program emphasizes Spain’s technological sovereignty, allowing local industry to manage the maintenance and evolution of the aircraft independently. This involves a range of responsibilities, from manufacturing primary parts and electrical systems to integrating national technologies within avionics and mission systems. Key Spanish companies, including GMV, Sener, Aertec, Grupo Oesía, Orbital, and Indra, will contribute their expertise, ensuring that local capabilities are firmly embedded within the aircraft’s operations.

Conclusion

With the ITS-C programme, Spain stands at the forefront of military excellence in training and preparedness. By investing in national capabilities and fostering technological independence, Spain not only enhances its own security but also reinforces its position in the global aerospace industry. This bold initiative highlights a commitment to innovation, training, and national pride—setting the stage for a new era in the Spanish Air and Space Force’s operations.

For more information on the Spanish Air and Space Force’s new combat training system, click here.

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