Indonesia orders 2 Airbus A400M in Multirole Tanker Transport configuration, with options for 4 more

 

A CGI of what an A400M in TNI-AU colors and markings will look like. Photo c/o Airbus.

European aircraft giant Airbus Defence and Space has announced that Indonesia has placed an order for two new A400M heavy transport aircraft, with an option for four more units.

This was announced by the company at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference  2021 (IDEX 2021) defense exhibition in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The contract is scheduled to take effectivity starting 2022, and will include a complete maintenance and training support package.

Aside from the order for two aircraft, a Letter of Intern was also signed indicating a possible follow-on order for four more aircraft.

The A400Ms for the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) will be configured for Multi-Role Tanker Transport roles, which will replace the force's ageing fleet of KC-130B Hercules.

According to Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto, the A400M will greatly increase the TNI-AU's tactical air-to-air capabilities, and response to any crisis, citing the A400M's role in providing relief and supplies after a tsunami struck Palu in Central Sulawesi, despite the short and damaged runway.

The aircraft will also be used to carry large and heavy loads at tactical and strategic distances, while also used for aerial refuelling capabilities. It can also be used for dropping paratroopers and other missions.

The A400M can carry two underwing refuelling pods using probe-and-drogue method, and can be rapidly configured from an aerial tanker to a transport aircraft, and vice versa.

Indonesia will become the 10th user of the A400M aircraft, and the second in Southeast Asia after the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).

The TNI-AU currently has the Lockheed Martin C-130 legacy Hercules as its biggest air transport asset.




[1] Airbus