Spain Orders 18 C295 Transport Aircraft

Why It Matters

The procurement consolidates Spain’s airlift capability, enhances logistical efficiency and strengthens domestic aerospace employment, reinforcing national strategic autonomy.

Key Takeaways

• Spain adds 18 C295s to modernize transport fleet
• Replaces aging CN235 and C212 trainers and parachute aircraft
• Fleet will total 46 C295s across transport, patrol, surveillance
• First batch delivered 2026‑2028 for training and cargo
• Integrated training system includes simulators and support until 2032

Pulse Analysis

The Spanish defence ministry’s decision to expand its C295 fleet underscores a broader European trend toward platform commonality. By standardising on the Airbus C295, Spain reduces maintenance complexity and leverages a proven airframe that already serves 38 nations. This move also aligns with the EU’s push for strategic autonomy, ensuring critical airlift capabilities are sourced from domestic production lines in Seville, thereby limiting reliance on external suppliers.

Operationally, the new aircraft bring significant capability upgrades. The C295’s ability to operate from unprepared runways, carry up to 70 troops, and conduct medical evacuations enhances the Spanish Air and Space Force’s rapid deployment options. Coupled with an integrated training package—featuring simulators, computer‑aided instruction and dedicated support services—the programme promises higher sortie rates and more efficient pilot and parachutist preparation. The phased delivery schedule allows the force to transition smoothly, retiring the CN235 and C212 while maintaining mission readiness.

From a market perspective, the contract reinforces Airbus Defence and Space’s dominance in the tactical transport segment, where the C295 holds 329 orders worldwide. Spain’s commitment may stimulate further regional interest, especially among NATO allies seeking interoperable platforms. Moreover, the inclusion of long‑term support and training infrastructure creates a sustainable revenue stream for the Spanish aeronautical ecosystem, potentially spurring future upgrades such as enhanced avionics or hybrid‑propulsion variants.

Spain orders 18 C295 transport aircraft

Getafe, Spain, December 23 2025

The Spanish Ministry of Defence has acquired 18 Airbus C295 transport aircraft to replace the CN235 and C212 fleets dedicated to the training of pilots and paratroopers of the Spanish Air and Space Force.

The objective of this programme is to harmonise fleets and achieve maximum logistical and operational commonality with the C295 fleet currently operated by Spain.

“This order reaffirms Spain's commitment to the C295, reinforcing national strategic autonomy and sovereignty while boosting the development of the Spanish aeronautical industry and the entire industrial ecosystem,” said Jean‑Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space. “With this contract, the Spanish Air and Space Force will operate a fleet of 46 C295s in transport, maritime patrol and surveillance configurations.”

The C295s in transport configuration have the capacity to carry 70 troops or 50 paratroopers, take off and land on unprepared runways, perform cargo and paratrooper drops, as well as perform medical evacuation.

To meet the specific requirements of the Spanish Air and Space Force, the agreement is divided into two batches.

• First batch: The first group of C295s will be dedicated to training and the transport of passengers, paratroopers, and cargo at the Military Air Transport School at Matacán Air Base in Salamanca. These tasks are currently performed by CN235 aircraft. The first of these aircraft will be delivered in 2026 and the last in 2028.

• Second batch: The second group of C295s will be used for manual and automatic paratrooper drops, as well as cargo drops, with deliveries scheduled between 2030 and 2032. Currently, these tasks are carried out at the Military Parachuting School at Alcantarilla Air Base in Murcia, using C212 aircraft.

Integrated Training and Fleet Support Package

The agreement includes the supply of an advanced ground training system designed in accordance with the customer's needs to maximise the efficiency of instructional flights. This system encompasses several flight simulators, computer‑aided teaching systems, and training management software for the Military Transport School in Salamanca and the Military Paratrooper School in Murcia.

The contract also includes comprehensive support for the C295 fleet at the Military Transport School, which will cover aircraft maintenance, the management of all necessary material for the aircraft, and the management of the training centre until December 2032.

The C295 is the undisputed leader in its segment with 329 orders from 38 countries across four continents and more than 710,000 flight hours. The aircraft is assembled at the Airbus Defence and Space facilities in Seville, Spain.

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