Aircraft’s performance

Speed: Mach 1.2–1.4 (Supersonic)
Service ceiling: around 45,000 feet (13,700 m) 
Length: 13.7 m; Height: 4.1. m (with retracted landing gear)

Mission systems

Airbus leads a network of national suppliers to develop the aircraft’s avionics and mission systems of the Spanish trainer.

Integrated training

Comprehensive coverage of the entire advanced training process for Spanish combat pilots.
 

Deliveries

Deliveries of the Spanish-spec version of the SAETA II and the ground training system will take place between 2031 and 2035. 

Strengthening Spain’s air defence

Airbus and Turkish Aerospace (TA) are partnering to develop a comprehensive solution tailored specifically for the Spanish Ministry of Defence's advanced combat trainer requirement. Based on the evolution of TA’s Hürjet platform into the SAETA II jet trainer, the new combat integrated training system combines a new-generation supersonic aircraft with Airbus’ world-leading expertise in systems integration, aircraft modification and lifelong support. The result is a technologically superior, sovereign solution designed to secure the future of Spain’s air defence.

This programme covers the entire advanced training process for Spanish fighter pilots, from the "Spanish-isation" of a fleet of 30 aircraft to the provision of an integrated suite of services for operation and maintenance. In addition to converting and integrating new equipment into the aircraft, Airbus will lead the redesign of the Fighter and Attack School Training Centre at Talavera la Real Air Base in Extremadura. 

Answering the call for an F-5 replacement in Spain

The Spanish Air and Space Force (Ejército del Aire y del Espacio) requires a modern F-5 replacement in Spain for its ageing fleet. These aircraft are vital for advanced pilot training. 

The SAETA II programme bridges the gap to next-generation fighters by providing a supersonic airframe and a fully integrated ground based training system. Airbus will lead the development and manufacture of this system to ensure Spanish pilots are expertly prepared for the digital battlefield. 

Spanish Air and Space Force’s Eurofighter aircraft

Authored on

Spanish Air and Space Force’s Eurofighter aircraft

The SAETA II: A next-generation training evolution

The SAETA II jet trainer is a supersonic, tandem-seat aircraft derived from the TA Hürjet, which took its maiden flight in 2023.  It will provide a seamless transition to the Eurofighter Typhoon and future combat systems. 

Beyond training, its high-performance specifications allow it to serve as a light combat aircraft in Spain. Its digital cockpit and multi-role capabilities ensure a cost-effective platform for light attack and armed reconnaissance missions. 

Establishing a national industrial footprint

 

Airbus will lead the redesign of the Fighter and Attack School Training Centre at Talavera la Real Air Base. This hub will feature state-of-the-art simulators developed with Indra to provide comprehensive logistical, operational, and maintenance support. 

The Spanish industry, coordinated by Airbus, will assume sovereign control to independently maintain and evolve the fleet. Local partners will integrate critical technologies, including mission computers (GMV), Identification Friend or Foe systems (Indra), and advanced avionics from Sener, Aertec, Grupo Oesía, and Orbital. 

Industrial Network for Spain's New Combat Training System

Industrial Network for Spain's New Combat Training System

 

Spain's New Integrated Combat Training System

Spain's New Integrated Combat Training System

Airbus drives a complete and sovereign system for Spain

An advanced combat trainer with Spanish configuration

Airbus will lead the SAETA II jet trainer development, nationalisation and certification, integrating specific systems to meet the operational requirements of the Spanish Air and Space Force.

Advanced ground based training system

Leveraging our simulation leadership, Airbus will deliver a fully integrated ground based training system, including simulators and debriefing systems for high-intensity training.

In-service support (ISS)

Airbus will manage the complete life-cycle support within Spain, ensuring maximum fleet availability and, crucially, sovereign control over maintenance, logistics and future upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the aircraft on which the new combat trainer for Spain is based?

The new combat trainer for Spain is based on the Hürjet aircraft, which is a supersonic, single-engine, tandem-seat advanced jet trainer developed by Turkish Aerospace (TA). The Spanish Air and Space Force has chosen the name “SAETA II” for the Spanish version of the Hürjet basic platform, specifically modified to meet the military requirements for the training of Spain’s fighter pilots.

Which aircraft will replace the Spanish Air Force F5?

The new combat trainer for Spain, SAETA II, is proposed as the ideal successor of the Spanish Air and Space Force’s F-5 fleet to ensure training continuity for fighter pilots. 

What are the capabilities of the new combat trainer for Spain?

Key specifications of the new combat trainer for Spain  include supersonic speeds, a modern digital cockpit and tandem seating. Beyond training, it is designed for multi-role operations, making it a capable light combat aircraft in Spain for missions such as armed 
reconnaissance. 
 

How does an integrated training system improve pilot training?

An integrated training system, featuring the Airbus ground based training system, synchronises live flight with advanced simulation. This approach allows pilots to train for high-intensity scenarios in a safe, digital environment before transitioning to next-generation platforms. 

What is the Airbus and Turkish Aerospace partnership for Spain?

This Airbus and Turkish Aerospace (TA) partnership leverages the aircraft manufacturing expertise of TA and the systems integration and support capabilities of Airbus. This collaboration ensures that the new combat trainer is fully supported and industrialised within Spain. 
 

Is Spain’s new combat trainer suitable for the Patrulla Águila?

Ongoing studies are currently assessing whether the SAETA II meets the specific requirements of the Patrulla Águila aerobatic team. With its high manoeuvrability and supersonic performance, the Saeta II jet trainer is a strong candidate for this role. Replacing the ageing fleet with this modern platform would ensure the Spanish Air and Space Force maintains its legacy of excellence in aerial displays. 
 

What is the economic impact of the new combat training system in Spain?

The programme of the new combat training system will significantly boost Spain’s national defence industry and global competitiveness. By establishing an Aircraft Conversion Centre and expanding the Fighter and Attack School at Talavera la Real Air Base, the project generates high-skilled employment and a robust local service network. Extensive technology transfer ensures sovereign control and autonomous future development for Spanish companies. 

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