Europe Prepares for Space Dominance
The European Union plans to create a 'Space Shield' program as part of its readiness roadmap. ESA will fund development of space-based ISR technologies in support of this effort.
The European Union plans to create a 'Space Shield' program as part of its readiness roadmap. ESA will fund development of space-based ISR technologies in support of this effort.
The Spanish Air and Space Force has selected Turkish Aerospace Industries to purchase 30 Hürjet advanced jet trainers, worth $3 billion (€2.6 billion). Airbus will lead the development and implementation of the new combat Integrated Training System (ITS-C), replacing the current F-5 aircraft fleet.
Spain has acquired four Patriot fire units for $1.7 billion, as confirmed by RTX's Raytheon, and 200 F-404 engine fans for its F/A-18 fleet from the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency. The deals follow Spain's recent defense shopping spree, which allocated €3.
Spain has agreed to purchase 100 Airbus helicopters worth an estimated €4.5 billion, including 50 new H145M aircraft for its army. The order is part of a national helicopter plan aimed at modernizing local defense assets.
Spain has formalized four contracts for 100 Airbus helicopters under the National Helicopter Plan announced in May 2025. The deal covers four different models intended for all three branches of the Spanish Armed Forces.
France and Spain reaffirmed their commitment to the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, citing renewed cooperation and shared goals for European strategic autonomy. However, Germany declined to comment on the meeting, fueling concerns over the program's progress and potential industry disputes.