Airbus-led team launches Spain’s new SAETA II combat training programme to replace ageing F-5 aircraft fleet

The programme follows a contract awarded in December 2025 and includes 60% participation from Spanish industry. Officials said the initiative is designed to strengthen domestic industrial capabilities while modernising pilot training.

The programme is based on a co-development agreement between Airbus Defence and Space, which serves as prime contractor, and Turkish Aerospace, manufacturer of the HÜRJET. The aircraft will be customised for Spain and designated as the SAETA II.

The project covers the full advanced training pipeline for Spanish fighter pilots. This includes aircraft customisation, operational support and long-term maintenance services.

Airbus will also lead the redesign of the Fighter and Strike School Training Centre at Talavera la Real Air Base. The upgraded centre will include advanced simulators developed with Indra and provide maintenance and logistics support for both aircraft and synthetic training systems.

“As a result of this national programme, Spain achieves three strategic milestones: we ensure technology transfer in key areas, we obtain a deep-reaching industrial return, and, above all, we provide the programme with the strategic sovereignty and independence necessary to manage the sustainment and any future evolution of the system,” said Marta Nogueira.

Amparo Valcarce highlighted the programme’s domestic industrial contribution.

“It is a project that mobilises our industry, generates knowledge, employment, and opportunities throughout the entire value chain,” Valcarce said.

She added that the programme “strengthens our strategic autonomy by allowing us to design, integrate, and evolve our own capabilities, reducing critical dependencies.”

The first phase of the programme will begin in 2028 and includes the delivery of an initial batch of 21 aircraft. One aircraft will be used as a prototype to integrate next-generation avionics and mission systems.

At the same time, companies will develop a ground-based training system scheduled to enter service during the 2029-2030 academic year. Officials said this phase will prepare the aircraft and training infrastructure for full operational deployment.

In the second phase, all 21 initial aircraft and nine additional jets will be converted to Spanish standards. Simulators will also be updated to match the final aircraft configuration.

Deliveries of the completed SAETA II fleet and its associated training systems are scheduled between 2031 and 2035. Airbus said Spanish industry will independently manage future maintenance and upgrades.

Several Spanish companies will supply key technologies, including GMV, Sener, Aertec, Grupo Oesía, Orbital and Indra. Airbus said the programme is intended to strengthen Spain’s long-term defence industrial sovereignty.