Helis, September 26, 2025 - Madrid – On September 24, the Government of Spain announced that has officially selected the Airbus Helicopters H175 to replace the Air and Space Force’s aging fleet of Eurocopter Super Puma and Cougar helicopters operated by 402 Escuadrón, Ala 48, at Cuatro Vientos Air Base near Madrid.
Under Royal Decree 848/2025, published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE), the Ministry of Industry and Tourism authorized the acquisition of six new H175 helicopters within the framework of the Helicóptero Multipropósito (HACES) program, launched in 2022. The decree also consolidates Spain’s National Helicopter Plan, ensuring long-term investment in rotary-wing modernization alongside fixed-wing programs.
Missions and Role
The H175s will be assigned to 402 Escuadrón, responsible for the air transport of senior state authorities, including members of the Royal Household, the Presidency, the Vice Presidency, and other government ministries. The new fleet will replace four HT.21A Super Puma (AS332M1) and two HT.27 Cougar (AS532UL) aircraft.
The renewal aims to incorporate the latest safety, communications, and navigation systems while ensuring compliance with new regulatory requirements. The helicopters will be delivered in a VIP configuration, featuring a soundproofed cabin, individual air-conditioning, and satellite communications, enabling fast operational qualification and integration into existing logistics structures.
Strategic Importance
By acquiring the H175, Spain becomes the first military operator of the type in Europe. While Airbus Helicopters has long promoted the militarized H175M variant, the Spanish order is expected to be based on the civil model with tailored military adaptations.
The H175 belongs to the 7-ton “super-medium” class, designed for long-range, high-payload missions with excellent comfort and smooth flight characteristics. Since entering service in 2015, more than 65 H175s have been delivered worldwide, accumulating over 240,000 flight hours in roles ranging from offshore transport to search and rescue and public service missions.
Under Royal Decree 848/2025, published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE), the Ministry of Industry and Tourism authorized the acquisition of six new H175 helicopters within the framework of the Helicóptero Multipropósito (HACES) program, launched in 2022. The decree also consolidates Spain’s National Helicopter Plan, ensuring long-term investment in rotary-wing modernization alongside fixed-wing programs.
Missions and Role
The H175s will be assigned to 402 Escuadrón, responsible for the air transport of senior state authorities, including members of the Royal Household, the Presidency, the Vice Presidency, and other government ministries. The new fleet will replace four HT.21A Super Puma (AS332M1) and two HT.27 Cougar (AS532UL) aircraft.
The renewal aims to incorporate the latest safety, communications, and navigation systems while ensuring compliance with new regulatory requirements. The helicopters will be delivered in a VIP configuration, featuring a soundproofed cabin, individual air-conditioning, and satellite communications, enabling fast operational qualification and integration into existing logistics structures.
Strategic Importance
By acquiring the H175, Spain becomes the first military operator of the type in Europe. While Airbus Helicopters has long promoted the militarized H175M variant, the Spanish order is expected to be based on the civil model with tailored military adaptations.
The H175 belongs to the 7-ton “super-medium” class, designed for long-range, high-payload missions with excellent comfort and smooth flight characteristics. Since entering service in 2015, more than 65 H175s have been delivered worldwide, accumulating over 240,000 flight hours in roles ranging from offshore transport to search and rescue and public service missions.
Broader Modernization Plan
Royal Decree 848/2025 outlines a package of acquisitions consolidating Spain’s rotary-wing families:
NH90-3 : Expansion of the tactical transport fleet for the Navy, Army, and Air and Space Force.
H135 Phase 2 : Additional units for the Navy and Air and Space Force, reinforcing training and support missions.
HACES (H175) : Replacement of AS332M/AS532 for state transport duties under Ala 48.
HELIPO : Procurement of a new twin-engine light helicopter for advanced training and logistics.
This program underscores Spain’s commitment to modernizing its air assets, reinforcing defense capabilities, and supporting the domestic aerospace industry, with Airbus Defence and Space and Airbus Helicopters España as central industrial partners.
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Ejercito del Aire y del Espacio Escuadron 402 Ejercito del Aire y del Espacio Spanish Air and Space Force 
