Spanish Navy Receives First Two NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters

Airbus Helicopters has formally handed over the initial two NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters (MSPT for Multi-Role Support Transport) to the Spanish Navy from its Albacete facility. These helicopters are the first of seven navalised NH90s purchased as part of the second phase of Spain’s NH90 programme, which encompasses a total of 23 aircraft.

The MSPT variant of the NH90 is engineered to fulfil the stringent operational demands of the Spanish Navy for amphibious tactical transport. Notable enhancements include reinforced landing gear, specialised naval communications and navigation equipment, and automatic folding systems for the main rotor blades and rear fuselage, optimising the helicopter for shipboard operations. These features enable the NH90 to transport up to 20 fully equipped troops or a light vehicle and conduct IFR (instrument flight rules) operations with a single pilot, even under challenging nighttime conditions and adverse weather.

"The delivery of the first NH90 MSPT helicopters is proof of the strong collaboration between the Directorate General of Armament and Material (DGAM), the Spanish Navy, and Airbus Helicopters," said Fernando Lombo, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Spain. "Thanks to this excellent cooperation, we've been able to conduct the training of Navy crews at our Albacete base, ensuring the helicopters can enter service at Rota Naval Base this summer, as planned for the Navy's operational readiness. All our teams remain fully mobilised to ensure a smooth entry into service. Congratulations to the new operator."

With this delivery, all three branches of the Spanish military—the Army, the Air and Space Force, and now the Navy—have incorporated NH90 helicopters into their fleets. This unified military platform highlights the NH90's versatility and strategic significance within Spain's defence forces and its industrial sector.

On May 13, the Spanish Ministry of Defence and Airbus Helicopters entered into a framework agreement to execute the Spanish National Helicopter Plan, which anticipates further expansion of the NH90 fleet for the Armed Forces.