The Airbus A400M is the new generation military transport and main tanker aircraft with which several European countries, including Spain, have modernized their air forces. The A400M is powered by four turboprop engines and its design responds to the needs of meeting the logistical and troop air transport needs of the countries participating in its program.

The origin of the Atlas program takes place in 1982 when the need to replace the C-130 Hercules and Transall C-160 became palpable. Initially, the project was going to be a collaboration of North American and European companies. Finally the Americans abandoned and the European companies joined the ‘Euroflag’ group.

After Germany and France, Spain is the country that ordered the most units of the A400M Atlas, all destined for the Air Force. The advantages of this transport aircraft, compared to its predecessors, the C-130 Hercules, are notable. The Atlas has greater payload capacity, operating range, altitude and cruising speed. It is capable of carrying 116 fully equipped soldiers or 66 stretchers on medical evacuation missions, in addition to various light vehicles such as the RG-31 Nyala or light tanks such as the LAV-25.

The A400M Atlas is assembled in Seville, Spain, and its first inaugural flight was made from that same city. Therefore, it has become a benchmark in the Spanish aeronautical sector.

NOW

The Spanish Air Force has 27 units of A400M Atlas and uses them mainly to transport troops and equipment to foreign missions. Especially in the field of operations in Afghanistan, where it will be a great asset for the withdrawal of Spanish troops.

Due to its characteristics, the A400M has been chosen as the transport plane that will be used during the great parachute exhibition that will take place next Columbus Day in the city of Seville. More than three hundred paratroopers are expected to deploy from four A400Ms as the final culmination of the military parade that will take place that same day to the wonder of all attendees.