Spanish Navy receives first H135 light helicopter

The Spanish Navy (Armada) has received its first Airbus helicopter in its history.

The delivery of the first of seven H135 helicopters to the Navy, acquired as part of a contract signed in late 2021 for a total of 36 H135s for the Spanish Ministry of Defence, went ahead as planned and signals a significant advancement in the Navy’s capabilities.

This H135 helicopter is slated to be a key asset within the newly established Twelfth Squadron of the Aircraft Flotilla, represented by a distinctive white owl on its crest. The primary missions for these helicopters will encompass training and utility operations, bolstering the Navy’s versatility and effectiveness.

- ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW -

The H135 is a light, twin-engine produced by Airbus Helicopters (formerly known as Eurocopter). This helicopter can perform many different missions, landing almost anywhere, particularly high and hot, while carrying more payload over longer distances than other rotorcraft in its category.

To prepare for their duties, Spanish Navy crews will continue their training at Albacete while eagerly awaiting the arrival of the second helicopter, which is expected later this year. In the first half of 2024, the H135s will initiate naval trials, which will include ship-based take-offs, with the goal of achieving Initial Operational Capability (IOC) by the end of 2024.

If you would like to show your support for what we are doing, here's where to do it.

If you wish to report grammatical or factual errors within our news articles, you can let us know by using the online feedback form.

Executive Editor

About author:

Emily Ryan Miller
Emily Ryan Miller
Emily Ryan Miller is an experienced journalist with excellent analytical skills and a deep understanding of military affairs. With her professional diligence and passion for the defense theme, Emily continues to inform the world about important aspects of the military sphere and deeply understands the significance of researching and tracking military events for the public and national security.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

TRENDING NOW