The first Eurofighter combat aircraft are expected to arrive at Gando Air Base in Gran Canaria on 26th June, marking the beginning of a historic transition in the defence of the Canary Islands' airspace.

The new aircraft will gradually replace the ageing F-18 fighter jets that have protected the archipelago for decades and are now reaching the end of their operational lifespan.

According to the Spanish Air and Space Force, the arrival of the Eurofighters represents a major milestone for the personnel of the 46th Wing, the unit responsible for safeguarding Canary Islands airspace around the clock.

Preparing for a New Era

The transition has been more than a year in the making. Since April 2025, a significant number of personnel from Gando Air Base have been training away from the island to acquire the specialist skills required to operate and maintain the advanced Eurofighter system.

Military officials say the extensive preparation programme will ensure the new aircraft can effectively carry out the air defence mission that will protect the Canary Islands for decades to come.

F-18 Fleet Remains Operational

Despite the demands of the transition, the Air and Space Force has praised the efforts of personnel at the base for maintaining high levels of readiness.

Of the eight F-18 aircraft still stationed at Gando, six remain fully operational, ensuring there has been no reduction in the unit's ability to respond to potential threats.

Officials stressed that the introduction of the Eurofighter has not affected the operational availability of the 46th Wing, which continues to provide continuous surveillance and control of Canary Islands airspace 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

A Historic Milestone

The Air and Space Force described the transition as a "historic milestone" for both the unit and the defence of the archipelago.

Military leaders have highlighted the commitment of the men and women of the 46th Wing, who have simultaneously maintained the ageing F-18 fleet while preparing for the arrival of one of Europe's most advanced fighter aircraft.

The Eurofighter programme is expected to significantly strengthen Spain's air defence capabilities in the Canary Islands, providing enhanced performance, technology and operational flexibility for future missions.

The arrival of the first aircraft later this month will be the first visible step in a transition that will shape the defence of the archipelago for many years to come.