Military aircraft

When airlift, deployment and support are key words for operational success, Airbus Military aircraft are ready to perform missions that range from light tactical transport to strategic force projection and aerial refuelling.

The turboprop-powered C212, CN235 and C295 have earned their reputation as rugged, capable and dependable tactical transports, becoming the twin-engine airlifters of choice for a growing number of military and government operators. With a combined total of approximately 790 aircraft in service or on order, this family is the best-seller in the light- and medium-weight tactical airlifter sector.

Longer-range transport duties and aerial refuelling are performed by the A310 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), while the larger A330 MRTT has become the aircraft of preference for countries seeking a new-generation solution for their airlift/tanker requirements. Both are derived from Airbus widebody twin-engine jetliners that have proven their performance, range and reliability in commercial operations around the globe.

The all-new A400M – which made its first flight from Seville, Spain in December 2009 – has been developed to replace ageing fleets of C-130 Hercules and C-160 Transalls in service around the world, and was designed with the harmonised needs of European NATO nations and international air forces in mind. This aircraft is powered by four modern turboprop engines and can operate from unprepared runways, with excellent short and soft field performance – with the flexibility to perform air-to-air refuelling, as well as serving as a receiver aircraft to take on fuel while in flight.