What's Happening?
Thales has been awarded a contract by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency to supply a next-generation Deployable Tactical Air Navigation (D-TACAN) system to the Spanish Air & Space Force. This system is designed to enhance military air navigation
capabilities, providing a cyber-resilient European sovereign solution. The D-TACAN system will support safe navigation, approach, and landing operations from both permanent and temporary airfields. It will be manufactured by Thales in Italy and integrated and maintained in Spain. The contract includes a comprehensive integrated logistics support package covering spare parts, training, product information, and electronic documentation to ensure the system's long-term availability and maintainability.
Why It's Important?
The deployment of the D-TACAN system is significant for enhancing the operational capabilities of the Spanish Air & Space Force, particularly in environments where GNSS signals are denied or jammed. This system supports resilient and secure air operations across NATO airspace, reinforcing European defense sovereignty and interoperability among NATO member states. The contract also highlights Thales' role in strengthening European industrial cooperation and defense capabilities, providing a critical navigation solution that is both cyber-resilient and mission-ready.
What's Next?
Through the NSPA framework, other NATO member states and entities with similar operational and technical requirements may acquire additional D-TACAN systems, potentially enhancing interoperability and collective defense capabilities across the Alliance. Thales in Spain will provide local engineering expertise, maintenance, and training services to ensure the system remains fully operational throughout its lifecycle, supporting the Spanish Air & Space Force's operational readiness.
