Spain Approves Euro 3 Billion Advanced Jet Trainer Program Featuring Turkish Training Aircraft

Spain – The Government of Spain has approved a €3.12 billion (US$3.62 billion) program to acquire a new integrated fighter pilot training system based on a customized version of the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) Hurjet, marking a major step in the modernization of the Spanish Air and Space Force’s fast-jet training fleet.

• The program, officially approved by Spain’s Cabinet this week, will run through 2035 with no extensions and will provide a next-generation Integrated Training System – Combat (ITS-C) to replace the ageing AE.09 (Northrop F-5M) fleet currently used for advanced fighter instruction.
• The Hurjet, a supersonic, single-engine, twin-seat training aircraft, will form the core of the new training system. Aircraft will be manufactured in Türkiye by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) and adapted in Spain with locally developed avionics, systems integration, and performance-enhancing modifications.
• Airbus Defence and Space Spain has been appointed national industry coordinator, responsible for design integration, manufacturing support, in-service sustainment, and training systems.
• According to official statements, the program will enable the Air and Space Force to “renew and expand capabilities for the instruction of pilots specializing in fighter and attack aircraft”, ensuring readiness for modern and complex operational environments.
• The ITS-C program will incorporate advanced simulators, AI-enabled training tools, and performance analytics, providing a fully digital, high-fidelity training ecosystem aligned with NATO and international standards.
• Initial aircraft deliveries are scheduled for 2028, with training operations at Talavera la Real Air Base expected to commence between 2029 and 2030. Fully integrated Spanish-configured Hurjets are expected from 2031 onward.
• Although the Cabinet did not specify unit numbers, previous planning documents and reports cite a requirement for up to 45 aircraft.
• The agreement builds on a May 2025 memorandum of understanding between Airbus and TAI, which outlines defense cooperation, industrial participation for Spanish companies, and potential export opportunities for the new system.

Source: Government of Spain & TAI