Airbus A400M Atlas Airlifter

Full Specifications

The Airbus A400M Atlas is a four engine turboprop military transport aircraft designed to bridge the gap between tactical airlifters and heavy strategic transports. Built for rapid deployment, it can move troops, armored vehicles, helicopters, and humanitarian supplies into austere or semi prepared airfields.

Developed to replace aging C 130 and C 160 fleets in Europe, the A400M supports airlift, aerial refueling, medical evacuation, and special operations missions. It can carry up to 37 tons of cargo, including infantry fighting vehicles or medium helicopters, and operate from short or unpaved runways.

Manufacturer

The aircraft is produced by Airbus Defence and Space, a division of Airbus. Final assembly takes place in Seville, Spain. The program includes several European partner nations such as Germany, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom. It entered operational service in 2013.

Speed and Range

Powered by four Europrop TP400 D6 turboprop engines, the A400M reaches a maximum speed of about Mach 0.72, roughly 780 km per hour. Its range is approximately 8,700 km with lighter payloads and about 3,300 km carrying a 30 ton load. The aircraft can also conduct air to air refueling as both tanker and receiver.

Cost and Price

The estimated unit cost ranges between 145 million and 180 million dollars depending on configuration and support packages. Costs have varied due to development challenges and production adjustments.