The Spanish Air and Space Force has completed the technological and operational transition at Wing 46 of the Gando Air Base. This strategic change, the culmination of years of planning, marks the end of the F-18 era in Canary Islands and the beginning of a new phase dominated by the advanced Eurofighter Typhoon (C.16) for the archipelago's air defense.
The arrival of the Eurofighter Typhoon, considered one of the most modern fighters in Europe, enhances the operational capabilities of the Spanish Air and Space Force in a geostrategic location. According to information from the air force itself, the modernization addresses the need to adapt resources to current air defense demands and ensure a greater response capacity for contingencies.
The farewell to the F-18 (C.15) concludes nearly forty years of operations in the islands, during which these fighters were a fundamental pillar in national airspace surveillance. Although the official ceremony marks the handover, six F-18s remain temporarily operational before being transferred to Zaragoza and their definitive retirement planned for December.
The transition, which began days before the official ceremony with the arrival of the first Eurofighter units, is being carried out in stages to ensure uninterrupted air surveillance missions. The implementation plan, ratified by the Chief of Staff of the Air and Space Army (JEMA), involved adaptations to infrastructure, logistics, training, and maintenance procedures since 2022.
Personnel training has been crucial. Pilots and technical and maintenance staff have received specific training to operate the new weapon system, ensuring the human factor contributes to the success of this transformation. The Eurofighter was already familiar with the operational environment in the Canary Islands, having participated in exercises since 2010 and reinforced the early warning service since late last year.
The handover ceremony, presided over by the JEMA, included the formation of the participating force, the reception of authorities, and military honors. Speeches were given by the wing commander of Wing 46 and the commanding general of the Canary Islands Air Command (GJMACAN), who highlighted the significance of the change for the archipelago's defense. The event also featured a tribute to fallen service members and a combined flypast of both aircraft.
A notable moment was the combined parade of ground units and aircraft, with an F-18 and a Eurofighter flying together over the base in formation. The day concluded with an aerial demonstration by the Eurofighter over Gando bay, showcasing its maneuverability capabilities.
This modernization enhances interoperability with allies and improves response to security scenarios. For the Canary Islands, where permanent airspace surveillance is a strategic mission due to its geographical position between Europe, Africa, and the Atlantic, this upgrade represents a significant step in maintaining the archipelago's defense capabilities for decades to come.
