Spain selects Airbus A321 as platform for new signals-intelligence aircraft
Madrid has chosen a modified Airbus A321 as the basis for its next SIGINT aircraft, ending a decade without a dedicated spy plane.
After ten years without a dedicated reconnaissance platform, Spain has identified a commercial Airbus A321 as the foundation for its future SIGINT aircraft. The move comes after the final flight of the retired Boeing B-707 “Reina del Espectro” in July 2014 and the launch of the Santiago II programme to rebuild lost electromagnetic-intelligence capacity. The defence ministry’s official publication notes that the A321’s size allows installation of external antennas, receivers, navigation gear and self-protection systems.
Airbus and the Spanish defence contractor Indra have been awarded an 18-month study contract to define the overall system architecture. The aircraft’s range of up to 8 700 km, depending on the version, would enable Spain to conduct independent intelligence missions. Further steps remain before full production can begin.
Why it matters
Restoring a national SIGINT platform enhances Spain's independent intelligence and security capabilities.
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