Indonesia receives first Airbus A400M as part of major fleet modernization

Indonesia has received its first A400M military transport aircraft from Airbus Defence and Space as part of its efforts to modernize its military transport capabilities. 

The delivery ceremony was held at Halim Air Force Base in Jakarta on November 3, 2025, the manufacturer announced in a statement. The aircraft was handed over at the Airbus facility in Seville, Spain in January 2025, which marked the start of its final production phase. 

“We welcome Indonesia as the 10th operator of the A400M,” said Karl-Heinz Grossman, Head of International at Airbus Defence and Space division. “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.” 

Airbus Defence and Space delivered the first #A400M to the Indonesia Ministry of Defence, marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to modernise its military transport capabilities. The heavy tactical airlift will be operated by the Indonesian Air Force. Read more:… pic.twitter.com/ThTTyDwNew— Airbus Defence (@AirbusDefence) November 3, 2025

The heavy tactical airlift will be used for missions by the Indonesian Air Force (TNI Angkatan Udara). The European manufacturer said it will also provide the Indonesian Air Force training and support services to ensure a smooth entry into service. 

Indonesia will explore the potential integration of the newly developed A400M firefighting kit on-board the aircraft. This roll-on/roll-off kit enables the A400M to be quickly converted into a water bomber, capable of dropping up to 20,000 liters of retardant or water in a single pass.  

According to Airbus, this new capability will “significantly bolster Indonesia’s ability to respond to wildfires across its widespread and often hard-to-reach terrain.” 

A400M capabilities and features 

The A400M is designed for cargo, troop transport, MEDEVAC, and humanitarian missions. It can carry a maximum payload of up to 37 tons of heavy or oversized loads, including helicopters, vehicles, and relief supplies. For an average mission carrying 30 tons, the A400M can fly 2,400 nautical miles, covering the entire archipelago from Jakarta. 

The aircraft is capable of operating on short, unpaved runways and can serve as an aerial refueling platform, further enhancing the range of the Indonesian Air Force. 

Indonesia ordered two A400M aircraft in 2021, with the first one already delivered and the second expected in 2026. The post Indonesia receives first Airbus A400M as part of major fleet modernization appeared first on AeroTime.

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