This work drafts a general framework about the disposal policies fostered by the Spanish Ministry of Defence since the 1980 s, which is apparently understudied in comparison with emerging international research. The research seeks two main goals. The first is to demonstrate that these policies have followed the general trend of neoliberal restructuring of the public sector, as it happened in countries like France, Italy, and the UK. In the face of austerity and deep state cuts in military spending, the MoD sells (off) its estate to reduce the real estate management and maintenance costs and generate financial gains from sales. The second goal is to highlight the primarily financial approach of the MoD disposal policies. Although military land may catalyse significant urban transformation, the disposal policies have sought direct economic revenue for the central government and the MoD. •Profit-seeking approach to public-owned assets leads to privatization.•The redevelopment of former military land is tied to neoliberal policies.•The Ministry of Defence plays either an active or passive role in the redevelopments.•The redevelopments apparently favour private interests over public benefits.•Tribunal appeals change the terms midway of planning agreements.