ASIM, Nov 03
The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has received its first A400M military transport aircraft from Airbus Defence and Space, making Indonesia the tenth nation to operate the model. The official handover took place at Halim Air Force Base in Jakarta, following the formal transfer in Seville, Spain. Configured for transport and aerial refuelling missions, the A400M is part of a 2021 agreement for two aircraft, with an option for four more; the second unit is scheduled for delivery in 2026. Airbus will provide training and support to assist with integration into the Indonesian Air Force. Capable of carrying up to 37 tonnes and operating from short or unpaved runways, the aircraft will be used for cargo, troop transport, medical evacuation, humanitarian aid, and refuelling missions. Indonesia is also considering equipping it with a modular firefighting kit to enable rapid conversion into a water bomber.