A key focus is the planned upgrade of 219 Leopard 2E main battle tanks—Spain’s version of the Leopard 2A6—to the 2EM standard. The upgrade will include improved turret armour, enhanced mine protection, integration of an active protection system, a new version of the 120 mm L55A1 gun, as well as updated battle management systems, crew displays, and optoelectronic equipment.
The second part of the armoured forces programme involves replacing around 79 older Leopard 2A4 tanks still in service. These are expected to be replaced with modern platforms, most likely the Leopard 2A8, although final decisions have not been confirmed.
The Army also intends to acquire light multi-role helicopters to carry out a range of missions, including reconnaissance and light attack roles. This effort is planned independently of a separate, wider government programme to procure helicopters for the armed forces and law enforcement agencies.
The selected helicopters are expected to offer lower operating costs compared to the heavier Tiger and NH90 helicopters currently in service. The Airbus H145M is considered a leading contender for the programme.
Spain is also planning to procure 145 new self-propelled howitzers to replace its ageing fleet of M109A5E systems. Of these, 109 platforms will be tracked and 36 will be wheeled, aimed at improving artillery mobility and effectiveness.
Additional modernisation efforts include the acquisition of new reconnaissance vehicles (VERT), CBRN reconnaissance vehicles (VVT), engineering vehicles, and mobile bridging systems.
