The extension secures a long-term commitment to sustain and develop A400M support services. OCCAR and NSPA reaffirm their collaboration to enhance operational efficiency for both flight crews and engineers.
All six nations continue to deploy their A400M aircraft in demanding environments, supporting humanitarian missions and national security operations. The SLA extension will facilitate the maintenance and future upgrades of the current fleet of 127 operational A400Ms.
Designed to meet the needs of modern military operations, the A400M is capable of all-weather, all-terrain transport for troops, cargo, and refuelling operations. The aircraft can also be configured as a tanker, extending its strategic utility.
The requirement for an advanced military airlifter was initially defined in 1997 by eight European NATO members. After evaluating various proposals, these nations selected the Airbus A400M on 27 July 2000 as their preferred solution.
The A400M incorporates cutting-edge technology to enhance interoperability and reduce operational costs. Through multi-national training and support initiatives, participating countries benefit from significant through-life savings.
The programme was formally integrated into OCCAR in May 2003, with an initial order of 170 aircraft across multiple nations. As of June 2023, 115 aircraft have been delivered to OCCAR members, along with four additional units to Malaysia.
Export interest in the A400M continues to grow, with confirmed sales to Kazakhstan and Indonesia in 2021. Additional international sales campaigns are underway to expand the aircraft’s global footprint.
The A400M offers a unique combination of strategic lift, tactical delivery, and in-flight refuelling capabilities. It can transport heavy and oversized cargo, including armoured vehicles and helicopters, at high speeds over long distances.
The aircraft is designed to operate on short and unpaved airstrips, providing a tactical advantage in austere environments. Its turboprop engines and 12-wheel main landing gear enable better weight distribution and improved performance in challenging conditions.
With built-in refuelling capabilities, the A400M can support frontline operations by refuelling fighter jets and other large aircraft. Its adaptable design allows for rapid configuration to meet mission-specific requirements.
