Germany placed the largest order for the A400M Atlas, with deliveries beginning in 2014. Over time, the aircraft enabled the replacement of the ageing Transall C-160 fleet and significantly expanded the operational capabilities of the Bundeswehr.
The A400M fleet operated by the Luftwaffe has carried out numerous humanitarian missions, including the transport of aid to the Caribbean following natural disasters. The aircraft have also supported military operations in the Middle East, including serving as aerial refuelling platforms during missions conducted from Jordan against Islamic State.
In recent years, the German government explored options to resell 13 aircraft from its fleet. However, despite multiple discussions, these efforts did not result in any agreements.
A separate initiative to establish a multinational transport squadron using around 10 German A400M aircraft was also considered. This proposal was ultimately not implemented.
Airbus has delivered a total of 139 production A400M Atlas aircraft to date. The company’s current order backlog includes 39 aircraft scheduled for delivery to Kazakhstan, France and Spain.
