Spanish defence company Indra is progressing with the development of as many as 147 Tarsis tactical drones for the Spanish military. The programme is intended to bring Spain closer to deploying its first domestically produced tactical unmanned aerial system fleet. The Tarsis aircraft are being developed under Spain’s Special Modernization Program for Medium-Range Unmanned Aerial Systems, known as SANTAM. The programme has a total value of 364 million euros, equivalent to approximately $420 million. SANTAM supports the requirements of all three major Spanish military services: the Spanish Army, the Spanish Navy and the Air and Space Force. The Tarsis systems are intended to provide the country with an indigenous tactical UAS capability rather than relying entirely on foreign-produced platforms. According to the programme schedule, deliveries of the aircraft are expected to start in 2028. The development and production effort represents a significant step in Spain’s effort to strengthen domestic unmanned-aircraft manufacturing and operational capabilities.
