Delivered in 4 batches between 1966 and 1981, 9 of the remaining 12 airframes were upgraded to SH-3D (SAR) standard, while 3 were brought up to SH-3G (AEW) with the addition of the Searchwater radar in a retractable dustbin on the starboard side. By Autumn 2005, most of the anti-submarine fleet had completed a conversion to the transport / assault role with the removal of the ASW sensor/attack equipment and the addition of troop litters and an externally mounted cargo hook.
After retirement in 2022 six airframes were donated to the Peruvian Navy. The helicopters, embarked on LPD Pisco (AMP-156), departed Rota on August 13, 2023
Nov 14, 2016 · 1,200 Spanish marines, elements from the Spanish Army and Air Force along the Portuguese Navy taking part of amphibious exercise GRUFLEX 61 in Cadiz and the Balearic Islands