Following the delivery of two NH90 helicopters to the Spanish Navy in May, all three branches of the Spanish Armed Forces – the Army, the Air and Space Force and now the Navy – operate the type. This marks the first time the services share the same helicopter platform across their fleets.
The first NH90 in the Standard 3 configuration was handed over to the Spanish Air and Space Force in December 2024. Delivered under the second batch of a 2018 contract, this version introduces significant upgrades including Mode 5 IFF, directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM), advanced communications and enhanced safety features. Major Cristina Pampliega, Commander of the 803rd Squadron of the 48th Wing described the NH90 as “the future” calling it “a hugely important generational leap and a profound change that we are excited to be part of.”
On 29 July the Spanish Navy formally welcomed its NH90s at Rota Naval Base. The 14th Aircraft Squadron created specifically to operate the NH90 MSPT variant had already completed training in Albacete in preparation for the deliveries. “The 60 members of the squadron were as excited as I was when the helicopters arrived,” said Frigate Captain Javier Moreno, Squadron Commander. “We had made extensive preparations and were eager to proceed to the next phase. The facilities at Rota were ready to accommodate the aircraft which will support troop transport and special operations. We will receive three NH90 helicopters in 2025 and complete our quota in 2026 with four additional units.”
Front-line role in flood relief
The NH90 has already demonstrated its operational value at home. When severe flooding struck Valencia in October 2024, NH90s from the Air and Space Force played a critical role in disaster relief. “The day after the floods, we already had an aircraft in Valencia,” recalled Major Pampliega. “Our initial priorities were searching for victims and flying logistics missions. Later we shifted towards reconnaissance to guide dam repairs and restore infrastructure. It was a tough mission for the crew because it was all so close to home.”
The Army’s NH90s – known as Sarrios – also deployed to the region. Lieutenant Colonel of Cavalry Iñaki Ochoa, formerly with the 3rd Manoeuvre Helicopter Battalion (BHELMA III) recounted: “Our first task was to rescue people and get them to safety. From the third day we focused on transporting personnel and equipment to inaccessible areas and assessing infrastructure damage. You could see in people’s eyes how grateful they were that we were there.”
Proving itself overseas
The NH90 has also proven its resilience in international missions. During deployment to Mali the helicopters performed strongly despite challenging conditions. “Like any first-time overseas mission, it required extensive preparation and logistical planning,” said Lt Col Ochoa. “Once in theatre, the helicopters performed superbly. The wet season meant flying through storms while the dry season brought intense dust – one of the toughest environments for any helicopter. Even so, we achieved a very high level of operational readiness.”
