Airbus A400M |
Militarymedia.net | The Airbus A400M Atlas medium-range military transport aircraft is an international project. This aircraft was ordered by 10 countries. The mayoral operators are Germany (60), France (50), Spain (27), UK (25) and Turkey (10). The A400M will replace a variety of aircraft, including the Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules and TRANSALL C-160. The A400M made its maiden flight in 2009. First deliveries were expected in 2009, however this was delayed due to delays. The first production aircraft entered service in 2013. That same year, the French A400M came into action. It was used to deliver cargo during combat operations in Mali. The first Airbus A400M was delivered to the UK in 2014.
The advanced design of the Airbus A400M incorporates the extensive use of composite materials.
The aircraft's primary role is troop and cargo transportation, as well as medical evacuation missions.
The Airbus A400M is powered by a new generation high performance TP400-D6 turboprop engine. Each one is rated at over 11,000 shp. This engine was developed by EuroProp International. The propeller blades are made of composite construction. The turboprop engine was chosen for a number of advantages, such as cruising fuel efficiency and lower operating costs. The A400M Atlas' cruising speed is almost as fast as a turbofan-powered transport.
Airbus A400M |
The transport aircraft can carry up to 116 fully equipped troops or 66 stretchers and 25 medics. The cargo hold can accommodate nine standard military pallets. Two more can be loaded on the back roads. Simultaneously 54 soldiers can sit on the side seats. This aircraft can unload paratroopers and cargo simultaneously. The A400M can also carry wheeled or wheeled vehicles, typically two 8x8 armored personnel carriers. Range at maximum payload is 3 300 km.
These military transports can take off and land on semi-ready airfields that are soft and require relatively short runways. It is also designed to operate with limited or no ground facilities.
The Airbus A400M can quickly be transformed into the role of a tactical refueling tanker in aviation. The refueling system can be installed within two hours.
Airbus A400M |