Thales has secured a contract from the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to supply its next-generation Deployable Tactical Air Navigation (D-TACAN) system to the Spanish Air & Space Force, strengthening airborne navigation capabilities with a cyber-resilient, rapidly deployable solution.
Based on Thales’ latest Ground Based TACAN 553 technology, the D-TACAN system provides precision tactical air navigation, approach and landing support for military aircraft operating from both permanent and temporary airfields. The system is designed to maintain navigation capability even in environments where Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals are unavailable or intentionally disrupted.
The contract includes an integrated logistics support package covering spare parts, technical documentation, maintenance and training to ensure long-term operational readiness throughout the system’s lifecycle.
Manufactured at Thales’ Gorgonzola facility in Italy—the European Union’s only TACAN manufacturing site—the system will be integrated and supported by Thales in Spain, combining European manufacturing with local engineering expertise and lifecycle support.
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Designed for rapid deployment by air, sea, rail or road, the D-TACAN is housed within a 20-foot ISO shelter and incorporates an uninterrupted power supply, power generation equipment and communications systems, enabling continuous 24/7 operation in demanding environments.
The contract also establishes a procurement framework that allows other NATO members to acquire the same deployable navigation solution, promoting interoperability and common navigation capabilities across allied air forces.
While primarily intended for military operations, the programme highlights the continued evolution of advanced airborne navigation technologies that enhance operational resilience, flight safety and mission effectiveness in contested environments.
