As the Spanish Navy undergoes a major transformation, Marnix Sap looks at the final days of the helicopter that has been a dedicated little workhorse for more than 50 years.
Modernisation of the Spanish Navy is now in full swing. Besides its new F110-class frigates, S-80 Plus-class submarines and NH90 helicopters, it will also introduce the MH-60R and is likely to acquire the F-35B, with older systems gradually being taken out of service. After the decommissioning of the venerable SH-3D on July 1, 2022, the next in line was the Hughes 500M, which in accordance with Spanish Navy tradition also meant the dissolution of the unit, 6th Escuadrilla (Squadron).
