As part of efforts to strengthen and modernize its transport capabilities, the German Air Force is getting closer to completing its fleet of 53 new A400M transport aircraft. This follows the recent delivery of the 49th aircraft by the aerospace consortium Airbus Defense and Space to the Luftwaffe, which was confirmed on May 28 through its social media channels.
At the end of 2014, the German Air Force formally began incorporating the new Airbus A400M strategic transport aircraft. These new platforms are intended to replace, along with the C-130J Super Hercules, the aging Transall C-160 aircraft, which were officially retired in December 2021 with the dissolution of the 63rd Air Transport Wing, previously based at Hohn Air Base.
In total, the German Air Force requires a fleet of 53 aircraft to carry out missions ranging from tactical and strategic transport of troops and equipment, aerial refueling, to humanitarian aid and assistance.
According to official statements from the force, the aircraft is capable of transporting: “…Up to 116 people can be transported in the A400M. Its spacious cargo hold also allows for the transport of various materials, such as a Tiger attack helicopter, a H145M light support helicopter, three Wolf all-terrain vehicles, a Fuchs armored personnel carrier, or a Puma infantry fighting vehicle.”
As noted, with this latest delivery on May 28, Airbus confirmed that the 49th aircraft intended for the German Air Force has been provided. The fleet is operated by the 63rd Air Transport Wing based in Wunstorf. Finally, in line with the official delivery schedule, the last A400M is expected to be received by the end of 2026.
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