Airbus Defence and Space has delivered the 50th A400M Atlas transport aircraft to the German Air Force, the fourth in Germany’s fleet to be equipped with aerial refueling systems. With a hose drum unit in the ramp and refueling pods on the wing tips, the platform transforms into a “flying gas station”, capable of refueling fighter jets, helicopters and other transport aircraft in flight.
This delivery represents more than just an additional fleet milestone – it confirms Airbus’ strategic investment in NATO air mobility and tactical flexibility. Operating under Lufttransportgeschwader 62 (Air Transport Wing 62) at Wunstorf Air Base, the aircraft will expand Germany’s capacity to support alliance missions in Europe and beyond.
NATO Integration and German Air Mobility
The A400M has become a pillar of European airlift capability. By the end of 2024, 131 A400Ms out of 178 orders had been delivered to partner nations – including 47 German ones. The aircraft bridges the gap between strategic transports like the C-130 and tactical giants like the C-17, with heavy lift, short-field operation and extended range.
Germany is a pioneer in the A400M’s aerial refueling role. In early 2025, the Luftwaffe A400M successfully refueled a US Air Force CV-22 Osprey over the North Sea, after previously conducting refueling trials with US Navy V-22 aircraft. This demonstrates interoperability with NATO partners and extends the aircraft’s operational cover.
- A German Air Force Tornado jet and A400M perform an aerial refueling demonstration during the 2023 Royal International Air Tattoo. (Clemens Westers/Wikimedia)
Life extension and protective upgrades
Airbus and Germany are preparing the A400M for future demands. In June 2025, Airbus won a contract to integrate Elbit Systems’ J-MUSIC Directed Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) on 23 German A400Ms. The $260 million program aims to protect strategic airlifters operating in competitive environments against infrared-guided missile threats.
Gerd Weber, Head of the A400M Program at Airbus Defense & Space, commented:
“Transporting troops, equipment and humanitarian supplies; refueling other aircraft and helicopters in the air; serving as a flying hospital… The Airbus A400M is the face and workhorse of the German Air Force. The new DIRCM system will provide A400M crews with greater protection during their missions around the world.”
The installation of the DIRCM is underway, certification is expected by summer 2025 and full retrofitting is expected to be completed by 2032.
Strategic implications for European defense
Airbus’ delivery of the 50th A400M to Germany highlights several strategic factors:
- Air mobility and deterrence: The A400M’s ability to carry 37 tons of cargo, medical evacuees or troops – as well as the ability to conduct refueling operations – enhances NATO’s ability to respond rapidly.
- Operational interoperability: Germany’s growing tanker-role capability improves support for NATO missions and allied partner forces operating in Europe and the Indo-Pacific.
- Modernization and Resilience: Through upgrades such as DIRCM and communications improvements in the Airbus “A400M for Tomorrow” initiative, the fleet is evolving to meet future multi-domain operations.
- Visitors explore a German Air Force A400M-180 during an open day at Exercise Pitch Black 24 held at RAAF Base Darwin, Australia, on July 20, 2024. (Corporal Manuel Rivera/USMC)
Outlook and continued evolution
Germany plans to deliver up to 53 A400Ms by 2026, almost all of which will be based at Wunstorf Air Base under Air Transport Wing 62. Airbus continues to provide technical, maintenance and training support—including a new maintenance center next door at Wunstorf that is expected to be online by mid-2027.
As Europe’s security priorities evolve, the A400M platform – and Airbus’ commitment to continuous capability upgrades – positions German and allied air forces to maintain readiness, flexibility and cooperative deterrence.
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FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
The A400M acts like a “flying gas station.” It can refuel fighter jets, helicopters, and transport planes while in the air. For NATO, this means missions in Europe, the Middle East, or the Indo-Pacific can run for longer periods without stopping. With Germany leading the way in aerial refueling, NATO enjoys faster response times and stronger teamwork among allied forces.
Germany is adding Elbit’s J-MUSIC DIRCM system, which protects aircraft from heat-seeking missiles. This is trending in defense news because many modern conflicts employ advanced missile threats. By 2032, 23 German A400Ms will have this system, making them safer for missions such as military transport, humanitarian aid and global NATO operations.
Unlike older aircraft, the A400M can carry 37 tons of cargo, land on short or rough airstrips and even refuel other aircraft. Think of it as a cross between the US C-130 Hercules and the larger C-17 Globemaster. On Google Trends, people are searching for “NATO air mobility” and “military transport aircraft upgrade” – the A400M fits both, offering the power, flexibility and modern technology for today’s missions.
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