The Army defines its robotic combat scenario during an exercise in Almería

A soldier operates a tactical drone

The Spanish Army conducted an exercise from October 27th to 31st at the “Álvarez de Sotomayor” Training and Firing Range (Almería), where robotic systems were integrated as part of the 2025 Tactical Experimentation Campaign. The campaign was organized by the Future Force 2035 Center of the Army Staff’s Plans Division, with the collaboration of the “King Alfonso XIII” 2nd Legion Brigade, serving as the Experimental Brigade.

Through this exercise, which included collaboration with the national industry and the participation of international observers and the Armed Forces, the Spanish Army has defined its robotic combat scenario, taking a decisive step in the transformation process toward Force 35.

A robot during its capabilities demonstration

During the maneuvers, capabilities were evaluated in unmanned aerial and ground systems, electronic warfare, anti-drone Defensa2009 systems, loitering munitions, and satellite and 5G communications solutions, in a tactical environment that realistically reproduces the conditions of combat on the modern battlefield.

The aim of the exercise has been to understand the robotic environment and the means that will be employed on the new battlefield, where technology is progressively taking the place of the combatant, and to enhance its own effectiveness and efficiency by integrating robotics and artificial intelligence, with the goal of extending the reach of effects and protecting the lives of its personnel.

A soldier guides a light ground robot

The 2025 Tactical Experimentation Campaign consolidates a model of direct collaboration with the national industry, in this case involving more than 20 domestic small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups, which provide their assets on the ground to validate employment concepts and procedures for operational units.

The participation in the exercise of representatives from the European Defence Agency and NATO working groups, as well as personnel from friendly and allied countries, allowed for observation of the Spanish Army’s progress in unmanned systems and their interoperability, promoting the exchange of lessons learned and the adoption of common solutions.