Spanish Navy’s AV-8B+ Harrier II Set for Historic Display at Malta International Airshow 2025
The organisers of the Malta International Airshow have announced a truly rare spectacle for their 2025 event—the Spanish Navy AV-8B+ Harrier II will take center stage with a breathtaking demonstration. One Harrier is slated to perform in the flying display, but attendees will be treated to the sight of two aircraft in total, with both available for close inspection on static display throughout the weekend. Adding to the excitement, the Spanish Navy is bringing two skilled demo pilots, each scheduled to showcase their prowess—one on Saturday, September 27th, and the other on Sunday, September 28th. This marks a historic moment for Malta, as it will be the first Harrier display on the island since 2010, a gap of 15 years that has left aviation enthusiasts eagerly awaiting its return.
Harrier performances are an uncommon treat at European airshows, and the Spanish Navy’s participation makes this event particularly special. While the Italian Navy also operates Harriers, it’s the Spanish Navy that has earned a reputation for delivering dynamic and memorable displays with these iconic jets. Such performances are scarce, even within Spain, and their appearances abroad are even rarer. In recent years, the Spanish Harrier has become a familiar sight at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), the renowned military airshow held annually at RAF Fairford in the UK, drawing massive crowds with its unique capabilities. This year, the Harrier is already confirmed for RIAT once again, as well as the Aire 25 airshow in Spain—a significant event celebrating 40 years of Patrulla Águila—and now, it’s Malta’s turn to host this exceptional aircraft for the first time.
Spanish Harrier / Royal International Air Tattoo 2024
The AV-8B+ Harrier II stands out in the world of military aviation for its remarkable vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) capabilities, a feature that allows it to operate from confined spaces like small naval vessels or rough airstrips where conventional jets would struggle. This versatility stems from a design born out of a partnership between the United States and the United Kingdom. The Harrier II project saw the UK step away in 1975, only to rejoin after the aircraft’s maiden flight in 1981, resulting in a jet that improved upon its predecessor with a more powerful engine, a larger composite wing equipped with extra hard points, and an elevated cockpit for better visibility. The Spanish Navy embraced this advanced platform early on, becoming the first international customer in 1983 when they ordered 12 AV-8B aircraft to replace their aging AV-8S Matadors. By 1993, they added eight AV-8B+ models, and in 2000, the entire fleet was upgraded to the AV-8B+ standard, incorporating cutting-edge radar and weaponry enhancements.
Today, these Harriers are flown by the 9th Squadron, known as Eslla 009, stationed at Rota Naval Base in southern Spain. From there, they often deploy aboard the amphibious assault ship Juan Carlos I, a vessel designed to maximize the Harrier’s unique operational flexibility. The aircraft’s ability to hover like a helicopter before transitioning to high-speed flight has made it a favorite among aviation enthusiasts, who appreciate both its engineering ingenuity and the skill required to pilot it effectively. For those familiar with military aviation, the Harrier’s distinctive silhouette and thunderous roar are unmistakable, evoking a sense of nostalgia for an era when V/STOL technology redefined tactical possibilities.
The Malta International Airshow has long been a cherished event for aviation fans, known for its picturesque Mediterranean backdrop and a lineup that consistently delivers impressive aerobatic feats. The Harrier’s return after such a long absence elevates the 2025 edition to new heights, signaling the airshow’s growing stature in the global aviation community. The organizers have spared no effort in securing this rare participant, and their enthusiasm is palpable. In their official statement, they shared their delight: “We are beyond thrilled to announce a truly special participant for the Malta International Airshow 2025—the Spanish Navy AV-8B+ Harrier II! This iconic aircraft will feature in both the flying display and the static exhibition, marking the long-awaited return of the Harrier to Malta after 15 years, with its last appearance being in 2010. This appearance is even more significant as it marks the first time the Spanish Navy will participate at our airshow! Operated by Eslla 009, based aboard Spain’s naval fleet, the AV-8B+ Harrier II is renowned for its unique vertical/short takeoff and landing capabilities, making it one of the most versatile and distinctive jets in modern military aviation. Its presence at this year’s airshow is a significant highlight and a rare opportunity for enthusiasts to witness its incredible performance in flight and admire it up close on static display.”
For those who follow international airshows, the Spanish Harrier’s track record adds another layer of intrigue. While it has been a regular at RIAT, where its displays have garnered acclaim, its ventures beyond that prestigious event have been limited. The Aire 25 airshow in Spain, set to celebrate the 40 years of Patrulla Águila with a lineup of historic and modern aircraft, will also feature the Harrier this year, giving Spanish audiences a chance to see it in action. Yet, the Malta appearance stands apart—not only for its rarity but also for the intimate setting of the island’s airshow, which offers a different flavor compared to the sprawling scale of events like RIAT. Here, attendees will get a dual experience: the thrill of the Harrier slicing through the sky and the chance to study its details up close on the ground, a combination that promises to captivate both seasoned spotters and casual visitors alike.
The significance of this event extends beyond the aircraft itself. The Spanish Navy’s decision to send two Harriers and two demo pilots reflects a commitment to showcasing their aviation prowess on an international stage, a gesture that underscores the strengthening ties between Malta’s airshow and the wider European aviation community. For Malta, a nation with a rich maritime and military history, hosting such a display feels especially fitting—the Harrier’s naval roots and its ability to operate from ships resonate with the island’s seafaring heritage.
As September 2025 approaches, the buzz surrounding the Malta International Airshow continues to build. The Spanish Navy’s AV-8B+ Harrier II is poised to steal the show, offering a rare glimpse of a jet that blends cutting-edge technology with a storied past. Whether you’re drawn by the roar of its engines, the elegance of its hover, or the chance to see two expert pilots push it to its limits, this is an event that demands attention. Make no mistake: for aviation enthusiasts who know their stuff, the Harrier’s return to Malta is a must-see moment, a chance to witness history in motion against the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean. Mark your calendars for September 27th and 28th—this is one display you won’t want to miss.
Visit our preview page for the latest performers list, weather updates, and more by clicking here, or go to the official Malta International Airshow website by clicking here.
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