The 6th Maneuver Helicopter Battalion (BHELMA VI, Batallon de Helicopteros de Maniobra VI ) is a Spanish Army aviation unit that constitutes the principal airmobile capability in the Canary Islands. Its origins date to April 26, 1977, with the establishment of the Helicopter Unit of the Canaries (UHELCAN), created to provide rotary-wing support tailored to the archipelago’s unique geographic and operational environment. In 1986, the unit was reorganized and formally designated as BHELMA VI, consolidating its structure and mission within the Army Airmobile Forces (FAMET). By April 2026, the battalion marked its 40th anniversary under this designation, reflecting four decades of continuous adaptation to maritime and island-based operations.
Initially equipped with light and increasingly obsolete platforms such as the AgustaBell AB212, the battalion progressively modernized its fleet to meet evolving operational demands. A significant capability enhancement occurred in 2010 with the introduction of the Super Puma helicopter, which expanded the unit’s heavy-lift capacity and substantially improved logistical connectivity between the islands. This modernization enabled more efficient transport of personnel, equipment, and supplies across dispersed and often remote locations, reinforcing both military readiness and support to civil authorities when required.
While primarily tasked with regional defense and mobility within the Canary Islands, BHELMA VI has also developed a notable record of international deployments. The unit first participated in overseas peacekeeping operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina between 2004 and 2005, followed by a deployment to Lebanon from 2008 to 2009. In 2013, it played a leading role in the final deployment of Spanish Army Airmobile Forces to Afghanistan, providing a substantial portion of the contingent. More recently, in 2019, personnel from the battalion were integrated into Task Force Toro in Iraq, contributing to coalition operations against DAESH.
In addition to expeditionary roles, BHELMA VI maintains a strong focus on joint and combined operations, particularly with the Spanish Navy. Regular training aboard amphibious and projection vessels, including the Juan Carlos I, supports the development of advanced aeronaval capabilities. These activities ensure the battalion remains prepared for rapid deployment in both national defense scenarios and international missions, combining mobility, versatility, and interoperability as core elements of its operational profile.
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