Spain F-18 Eurofighter Upgrade Morocco Defense Strategy

The official fleet changeover took place on June 26 at the Gando air base in Gran Canaria. This major event, presided over by the Spanish Air Force Chief of Staff Francisco Braco Carbó, marks the end of operational life for the historic F-18s. The ceremonies include a tribute to military personnel who fell in service, a dual ground and aerial parade, as well as an impressive flying demonstration over the bay to formalize this technological transition.

On Bladi.net : Spain Eurofighter deterrence message Morocco defense

This capacity renewal is based on a massive contract worth over 2 billion euros validated in late 2021. The project involves the acquisition of twenty new aircraft, including sixteen single-seaters, bringing the national fleet to a total of ninety units. A first concrete milestone has just been achieved with the delivery of one unit from the Airbus assembly line in Getafe. This prototype must first undergo ground engine tests before beginning its flight test campaign.

To ensure the effectiveness of these weapon systems, personnel from the 46th Squadron have undertaken intensive training away from the archipelago since April 2025. Pilots, logisticians, and maintenance technicians are familiarizing themselves with the new controls. Pending full delivery, an initial allocation of eight aircraft borrowed from Squadrons 11 and 14 ensures the transition. Three fighters of the advanced Tranche 3 version, coming from Albacete, have already confirmed their arrival on site.

This modernization responds to the security requirements of a hyperstrategic territory. Located at the crossroads of the Atlantic, Europe, and Africa, the Canary Islands require, it is said, an immediate reaction capacity in the face of any incident. According to information reported by OKDIARIO, these fighters will eventually be replaced by an even more advanced generation by the end of 2026. In the meantime, the older models maintain their uninterrupted patrols to protect this highly sensitive airspace.