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Context

• Aircraft manufacturer Airbus has submitted its A400M transport aircraft as a potential option for the Indian Air Force's Request for Information (RFI) for a Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) with a carrying capacity of 18 to 30 tonnes.

A400M (Future Large Aircraft) Military Transport Aircraft

About

• The Airbus A400M Atlas is a European four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft.
• The aircraft weighs approximately 76,500kg and the maximum take-off weight is 141,000kg.
• The A400M (formerly known as the future large aircraft) is designed to meet the requirements of the Belgium, French, German, Spanish, Turkish, Luxembourg and UK air forces.

Design

• It was designed by Airbus Military (now Airbus Defence and Space) as a tactical airlifter with strategic capabilities.

Speed

• The A400M’s normal operating speed is 555km/h, but it can reach a maximum speed of 780km/h.

Features

• The A400M can carry heavier loads than the C-130 and can use rough landing strips.
• The A400M can also perform aerial refueling and medical evacuation when fitted with appropriate equipment.
• Its capability for short, soft field landing and take-off is part of the requirement and the aircraft has six-wheel high-flotation main landing gear.
• Airdrops and tactical flight require good low-airspeed flight, and the aircraft is also capable of long-range, high-cruise speeds for rapid and flexible deployment.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/airbus-pitches-a-400m-transport-aircraft-for-iafs-medium-transport-aircraft-contest/article67110259.ece

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