Image: from Airbus Defence X @AirbusDefence
By Open Chronicle with agencies
Spain has reached a major milestone in the modernization of its air force, with the first Eurofighter Typhoon built under the Halcon I program rolling out of Airbus Defence and Space’s facility in Getafe, near Madrid. The aircraft is now preparing for engine testing and its maiden flight, marking the arrival of a new generation of combat aircraft for the Spanish Air and Space Force.
The rollout represents the physical completion of the first aircraft from Spain’s order of 20 Eurofighter Typhoons signed in June 2022. Airbus confirmed that preparations are underway for the aircraft’s first engine run and flight testing, bringing the program closer to operational service.
🇪🇸 Halcón I
Primer Eurofighter del programa Halcón I. Serán 20 aparatos en total, 16 monoplazas y 4 biplazas. https://t.co/dQjQLVi9El
— Historias de aviación 🇪🇦 (@ReinaldoDMM) June 1, 2026
A New Standard for Spanish Air Power
The new aircraft is the first Spanish Eurofighter built to the Tranche 4 standard, incorporating significant technological improvements over earlier versions that have served with Spain since 2003.
At the heart of the upgrade is the E-Scan Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. Unlike older mechanically scanned systems, the new radar uses hundreds of electronic transmit and receive modules that allow it to track multiple targets simultaneously, switch rapidly between mission modes, and operate with a lower probability of detection by enemy electronic warfare systems.
The AESA radar also enhances electronic attack capabilities and improves situational awareness for pilots operating in increasingly contested environments.
In addition to its advanced sensor suite, the aircraft will be equipped with the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile. Powered by a ramjet engine, Meteor offers engagement ranges exceeding 100 kilometers and provides a significant increase in capability compared to previous missile systems. The aircraft will also be compatible with the Brimstone III precision strike missile for air-to-ground missions.
Replacing Spain’s Aging Hornet Fleet
The Halcon I fleet is intended to replace the aging F/A-18 Hornets currently based at Gando Air Base in the Canary Islands.
Located off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands occupy a strategically important position at the southwestern edge of NATO territory. Aircraft stationed there are responsible for monitoring approaches to the Strait of Gibraltar, securing Atlantic maritime routes, and providing air defense coverage for the archipelago.
As the Hornet fleet approaches retirement, the new Eurofighters are expected to ensure Spain maintains a credible and modern air defense capability in this strategically sensitive region.
Deliveries Begin in 2026
Spanish Air Force Chief of Staff General Francisco Braco Carbó has confirmed that the first three Halcon I aircraft are expected to join operational units this year, with broader deliveries continuing from 2026 onward.
Spain has also expanded its Eurofighter commitment through the Halcon II program. In December 2024, Madrid signed a second contract for 25 additional aircraft, bringing the total number of Eurofighters ordered since 2022 to 45.
Once all deliveries are completed, Spain’s Eurofighter fleet is expected to reach approximately 115 aircraft, making it one of the largest operators of the platform in Europe.
Enhanced Performance and Connectivity
The Tranche 4 Eurofighters feature upgraded cockpit displays, improved electronic warfare systems, and enhanced data-sharing capabilities designed for modern network-centric operations.
Powering the aircraft are two Eurojet EJ200 engines, each capable of producing around 90 kilonewtons of thrust with afterburner. The engines allow the Typhoon to achieve supercruise, the ability to sustain supersonic speeds without using afterburners, a capability available to only a small number of fighter aircraft worldwide.
This performance advantage, combined with advanced sensors and long-range weapons, significantly increases the aircraft’s effectiveness in both air superiority and multi-role missions.
Strengthening Europe’s Defense Industry
The Halcon program also highlights the continued importance of European defense cooperation. The Eurofighter Typhoon remains one of Europe’s largest collaborative military aviation projects, involving industrial participation from Spain, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
With the first Halcon I aircraft now preparing for flight testing, Spain is entering a new phase in its air combat modernization strategy. The program is expected to strengthen national defense capabilities while reinforcing Europe’s broader efforts to maintain technological and operational independence in military aviation.
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