Spain is moving forward with a new phase of several major defense programs. One of the key priorities is the modernization of its Leopard 2E fleet. However, this is far from the only initiative. Other efforts include replacing Leopard 2A4 tanks, procuring anti-ship systems, and, of potential indirect relevance to Ukraine, selecting a replacement for its MIM-23 Hawk air defense systems.
According to Infodefensa, citing official publications from Spain’s Ministry of Defense, Madrid is currently considering three options to strengthen its air defense. These include the German IRIS-T SLM from Diehl Defence, the British CAMM-ER developed by MBDA UK, and the Norwegian NASAMS-ER produced by Kongsberg.
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In March, it also became clear that Germany is actively promoting its IRIS-T system in Spain. A cooperation agreement has already been signed with Indra Group to support local production and adapt the system to the needs of the Spanish Armed Forces, relying on the country’s defense-industrial base.
Spain’s eventual retirement of its Hawk systems may be relevant for Ukraine. In 2022, Spain reinforced Ukraine’s air defense by supplying a battery of these systems. At present, the Spanish Army is believed to operate up to 28 MIM-23B I-Hawk Phase III systems.
At the same time, the replacement program is still at an early planning stage. Although potential candidates have been identified, selecting a winner, signing contracts, and delivering new systems will take time.
It also remains unclear how long Spain intends to keep its Hawk systems in service. They may be phased out gradually or only after new systems become operational. This uncertainty affects the future condition of these systems and how many could remain suitable for refurbishment or transfer.
Another important factor is missile availability. Notably, the United States opened a maintenance facility last year, the Theater Readiness Monitoring Facility, which will service missiles for Hawk systems as well as other legacy air defense platforms. This indicates that, despite their age, Hawk systems are still considered relevant due to the global shortage of air defense capabilities.
Spain currently operates one of the most advanced pre-final variants of the system, the Improved Hawk Phase III. It can detect targets at ranges of up to 100 km and engage aerodynamic targets at distances of up to 50 km and altitudes of up to 20 km.
The most advanced version, Hawk XXI (Hawk 21), features a high level of digitalization and the AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar, which is already familiar to Ukrainian forces. Spain began upgrading its systems to this standard in 2021, although the number of upgraded units remains unknown.
As for Ukraine, the exact number of Hawk systems in service has not been disclosed, but it is believed to be significant. The first footage of their use appeared in 2023. In addition, last year details emerged about a $172 million contract for Hawk systems procured by Ukraine from the United States, with work to be carried out in Greece.
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