Indonesian Air Force’s first Airbus A400M enters final assembly line 

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI Angkatan Udara) is one step closer to welcoming its first Airbus A400M military transport aircraft, as the aircraft has officially entered the Final Assembly Line (FAL) in Seville, Spain.  

This milestone marks the start of the final production phase, where key components, including the fuselage, wings, and tailplane, are integrated into a single airframe. 

The aircraft, designated MSN148, will undergo a series of critical assembly steps, beginning with the attachment of the Horizontal Tail Plane (HTP) to the Vertical Tail Plane (VTP) and the integration of the wings to the fuselage.

Subsequent stages will include the installation of the powerplant and advanced software systems, followed by rigorous functional testing and engine runs. The first aircraft is expected to be delivered to Indonesia by the end of 2025. 

The first Airbus #A400M for the Indonesian Air Force has entered the Final Assembly Line (FAL) in Seville, marking a significant milestone in the production of this multirole tanker and transport aircraft ahead of its delivery by the end of 2025.During this phase of assembly,… pic.twitter.com/7nj4vH99k7— Airbus Defence (@AirbusDefence) January 20, 2025

The Airbus A400M Atlas is a military transport aircraft developed by Airbus Defence and Space, which was introduced into service in 2013 as a modern replacement for older airlifters, such as the C-130 Hercules and the C-160 Transall.

It is capable of transporting heavy and oversized cargo, supporting both tactical and strategic missions, conducting medical evacuations, and functioning as an aerial refueling tanker.  

The A400M has a maximum cargo capacity of 37 tons and can accommodate up to 116 soldiers with their equipment, with a range of over 4,500 kilometers (around 2,800 miles). 

Indonesia to strengthen its airlift capabilities 

The acquisition of two A400M aircraft by Indonesia was announced in November 2021. This acquisition aims to enhance the Indonesian Air Force’s airlift capabilities, allowing for rapid responses to crises, a need that was identified after the earthquake and tsunami that hit the country in 2018. 

RELATED

Airbus allegedly barred Chinese nationals from A400M aircraft during SG Airshow

One of the A400M’s key advantages is its ability to operate on short, soft, and unpaved airstrips, including beach landings. This capability is particularly beneficial for Indonesia, an archipelago comprising more than 17,000 islands, many of which are difficult to access and located in remote areas. 

RELATED

Luftwaffe Airbus A400M achieves first refueling of US Navy V-22 Osprey

Indonesia will become the second operator of the A400M in Southeast Asia after the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF). The post Indonesian Air Force’s first Airbus A400M enters final assembly line  appeared first on AeroTime.

Go to Source