The Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) has extended an existing contract to supply NATO’s A400M aircraft program with support services.
Under the five-year extension agreement, nations participating in the program will receive airframe and engine electronic material support services.
“OCCAR and its partner [NATO] once again reinforced their cooperation built on a similar vision aimed at supporting the utmost efficiency for the operational end-users both crews and/or engineers,” OCCAR stated.
“This agreement’s extension paves the way to the sustainment of the current 127 and future, operational proven A400M aircraft,” it added.
NATO A400M Aircraft
NATO’s A400M program aims to provide allies with flexible and cost-effective support to deploy personnel and equipment quickly.
The project was officially launched and integrated into OCCAR in 2003, following the selection of the Airbus A400M in 2000.
The need for an advanced military airlifter was assessed starting in 1997, initiated by eight NATO members.
The A400M can transport heavy armored vehicles, helicopters, and specialized civil engineering equipment.
The aircraft can reach a maximum altitude of 40,000 feet (12,000 meters) and achieve a top speed of Mach 0.72.
It is designed to carry a maximum payload of 37 tonnes (81,571 pounds). Additionally, it can hold up to 51 tonnes (11,2436 pounds) of internal fuel, ensuring extended operational range and endurance.
The A400M can land on short and unpaved runways and can be equipped with two pods to refuel two fighters at once or a Hose and Drum Unit to refuel larger aircraft, such as another A400M or a C295 tactical transport aircraft.