Indonesia’s Ministry of Defence has received the first of two A400M aircraft from Airbus Defence and Space, advancing the country’s efforts to modernize its military transport capabilities. Ordered in 2021, the second unit is scheduled for delivery in 2026, Airbus said Monday. Indonesia is the 10th operator of the A400M.
What Are the A400M’s Capabilities?
The A400M, which will be operated by the Indonesian Air Force, is tailored to the country’s mission requirements. Designed for troop and cargo transport, medical evacuation and humanitarian missions, the aircraft can carry up to 37 tons of oversized payloads, such as vehicles or helicopters, and fly 2,400 nautical miles with an average payload of 30 tons, covering the entire Indonesian archipelago.
Built for flexibility, the aircraft can operate on short or unpaved runways and function as an aerial refueling tanker to extend the operational range of the Indonesian Air Force.
How Is Airbus Supporting the Aircraft’s Introduction?
Airbus will provide training and maintenance support to ensure the aircraft’s smooth entry into service. “This delivery is a strong demonstration of the trust placed in the aircraft’s multi-role capabilities and suitability for operations in diverse and challenging environments such as the country’s geographic complexity,” said Karl-Heinz Grossman, head of international at Airbus Defence and Space. “We look forward to supporting the Indonesian Air Force as it begins operating the A400M for national and regional missions.”
How Could the A400M Support Indonesia’s Wildfire Response?
The defense ministry is evaluating the possible integration of Airbus’s new modular firefighting kit into its A400M fleet to enhance the country’s ability to respond to wildfires, including those in hard-to-reach locations. The roll-on/roll-off system can convert the aircraft into a water bomber capable of releasing up to 20,000 liters of water or retardant in a single pass.