Airbus Defence and Space has delivered the first A400M aircraft to the Indonesian Ministry of Defence, marking a key step in the nation’s ongoing modernization of its airlift capabilities. The aircraft will be operated by the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU).
The handover ceremony took place at Halim Air Force Base in Jakarta, following the official transfer from Airbus’s production facility in Seville, Spain. Indonesia ordered two A400M aircraft in 2021, with the second delivery scheduled for 2026.
“Today we welcome Indonesia as the tenth operator of the A400M,” said Karl-Heinz Grossman, Head of International at Airbus Defence and Space. “This delivery is a strong demonstration of the trust placed in the aircraft’s multi-role capabilities and suitability for operations in diverse and challenging environments such as the country’s geographic complexity. We look forward to supporting the Indonesian Air Force as it begins operating the A400M for national and regional missions.”
Airbus will provide training and support services to assist the Indonesian Air Force with operational integration and maintenance.
Indonesia is also exploring the possible integration of Airbus’s newly developed firefighting kit onto its A400M fleet. The roll-on/roll-off modular system allows the aircraft to be converted into a water bomber capable of releasing up to 20,000 liters of water or fire retardant in a single pass. The capability would enhance Indonesia’s response to wildfires across its widespread and difficult-to-access regions.
Configured for cargo, troop, and medical evacuation missions, the A400M can carry up to 37 tonnes of payload—including vehicles, helicopters, and relief materials—and operate from short or unpaved runways. It also functions as an aerial refuelling platform, extending the operational range of the Indonesian Air Force across the archipelago.