Spanish Navy Warships In Line For Air Defence Upgrade

MBDA’s Simbad short-range air defence systems like the one pictured are initially set to be installed on three Spanish Navy vessels. Image: MBDA

14/09/2026

Three Spanish Navy warships are set to be equipped with MBDA’s Simbad RC short-range air defence system.

The remotely controlled very short-range air defence (VSHORAD) system fires the company’s fire-and-forget Mistral missiles and provides a defence capability against anti-ship missiles, aircraft, helicopters, and aerial drone threats.

As per an MBDA statement: “The systems will be integrated into active naval units as part of the Ministry of Defense and Navy’s plan to strengthen the fleet’s self-defence capabilities against missile and aerial threats.”

It’s understood the initial agreement covers four launchers, destined for three warships — one each for two unspecified F80 Santa-Maria class frigates, and the other two for its larger landing helicopter dock (LHD) flagship, the Juan Carlos I.

The Simbad RC system fires two Mistral 3 missiles and has a range of about 5 miles. It features an automated turret with thermal optical sensors and video trackers that can either be incorporated into the ship’s wider combat management systems, or operated independently.

The firm’s website states: “Thanks to its very small footprint, Mistral Simbad RC can be installed on board a wide range of ships, from patrol boats up to support ships. It has been designed to conform to different combat system capabilities, from standalone to fully integrated.

Being fully controlled by a single operator from inside the vessel, the system offers 24/7 operational capability, even in adverse weather conditions and very high sea states. The system is therefore ideally suited to ships with low manning.”

CEO of MBDA Eric Béranger commented: “This first direct agreement with the Spanish Navy is a historic milestone for MBDA. It demonstrates our growing footprint and long-term commitment to Spain. By delivering critical defense capabilities, we are enhancing fleet security and building a strategic partnership based on innovation and cooperation with the Spanish defence industry.”

The company added in a statement: “With this agreement, MBDA provides a strong boost to its presence in Spain and its commitment to the development of national defence capabilities, consolidating growth that it aims to continue in the coming years by pursuing new cooperation opportunities with the Armed Forces and the national defence industry.”