NSPA delivers final H215 helicopter to Spanish Air Force.

The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) Aviation Programme has completed the procurement of a new H215 Super Puma helicopter for the Spanish Air Force, the service said on December 13, 2018.

Spanish Air Force received its first H215 SAR helicopter in October 2016
(Credit: Airbus Helicopters)

This helicopter is the 4th unit acquired by the Agency and its incorporation into the inventory will help the 802 Squadron based in the Canary Islands to regain full operational capability. The purchase was negotiated in July 2016 by the Spanish Ministry of Defense, through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA).

The helicopter configuration with its specific mission equipment allows the performance of Search and Rescue (SAR) missions. This configuration includes emergency floatation system to allow missions over the sea to be conducted and provisions to install a rescue hoist. The cockpit of the helicopter incorporates the latest technologies with multi-functional displays and allows night vision goggles operations. 

The Spanish Air Force’s H215 boasts additional fuel tanks that extend its range up to 560 Km, an emergency buoyancy system, a high-frequency radio, a hoist, and a cockpit compatible with night vision goggles, among other equipment.

The high level of commonality with the previous units procured by NSPA has simplified the preparation of the tender and allowed a quick and efficient procurement process. The initial acceptance tests of the helicopter took place during the last week of November and the final transfer to the Spanish Air Force will be conducted next February, after the helicopter receives the Spanish Air Force paint scheme.