Navarra’s New Medium Speed Radar: A Closer Look
Navarra has recently implemented a medium-speed radar system on the AP-68, overseeing a continuous stretch of more than 30 kilometers between Cortes and Tudela. This radar is now actively monitoring and issuing fines for traffic violations. While it ranks among the longest in Spain, it does not hold the record.
The Radar Details
The radar operates in a descending direction, covering the stretch from kilometer points 115,027 to 84,483. In total, it monitors 30.544 kilometers, making it a significant addition to the region’s traffic enforcement measures. Additionally, Navarra has installed a second radar on the N-121-A, which spans nearly 14 kilometers between the Belate and Almandoz tunnels, and is also operational.
Why This Location?
The decision to install the radar stems from alarming accident statistics. The Government of Navarra, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), has cited that there were 76 recorded accidents on the AP-68 from January 2022 to June 2025. These included 19 incidents with injuries, one fatality, one serious injury, and 25 minor injuries. The N-121-A also experienced 56 accidents during the same timeframe, highlighting the critical need for enhanced traffic monitoring.
How the Radar Functions
Unlike traditional speed cameras, which measure speed at a single point, this radar calculates the average speed over its entire monitored stretch. It employs two cameras: one records the vehicle’s license plate at the start of the monitored section, while the other captures it at the end. The system then computes how long it took the vehicle to traverse that distance. If the travel time indicates an average speed exceeds the legal limit, a violation is automatically recorded.
Potential Fines
Fines for exceeding speed limits can vary. They range from €100 for slight offenses, which do not incur penalty points, up to €600 and the loss of six points for severe violations. Prompt payment within 20 days can lead to a 50% reduction in monetary fines, although the penalty points remain unaffected.
Not the Longest in Spain
Even with its impressive length, Navarra’s radar is not the longest in Spain. That title goes to a radar on the CL-615 in Palencia, which efficiently monitors a stretch of 33 kilometers. Navarra’s AP-68 installation falls just short by about three kilometers. Data from the DGT indicates that there are 16 section radars across Spain that encompass distances exceeding 10 kilometers.
Future Expansion Plans
As of now, the number of section radars in Spain has seen a steady increase. From 92 radars in 2024, the count reached 110 in 2025 and has grown to 149 today. The DGT plans to expand radar installations further in the latter half of 2026, primarily focusing on secondary and conventional roads, where the majority of fatal accidents occur.
Navarra Takes Action
The operationalization of this radar is strategically significant. Navarra acquired official ownership of nearly 40 kilometers of the AP-68 on January 29 of this year. Starting July 1, the regional government will also gain the authority to process, resolve, and collect traffic fines, making this radar not only a tool for safety but also a potential source of revenue.