A versatile airlift aircraft enhancing tactical and strategic operations.
Atlas C.1 A400M provides tactical airlift and strategic oversize lift capabilities complementing those of the Hercules and C-17 fleets.
ROLE
Entering operational service with the Royal Air Force in 2014, Atlas provides a tactical air lift and strategic oversize lift capability that complements the Royal Air Force’s C-130J and C-17A fleets. The aircraft is operated by two pilots and a Weapons Systems Operator (Crewman) [WSOp (Cmn)].
Technical Specifications
Specifications
Technical Specifications
Specifications
Technical Specifications
Sensors
Technical Specifications
Defensive Aids
CAPABILITY
Atlas has the ability to carry a 30-tonne payload over 2,400nm to both established and remote civilian and military airfields, or by landing on short, unprepared or semi-prepared strips. The aircraft is capable of operating at high-level altitudes up to 40,000ft. Atlas can carry 116 passengers, or 9 aircraft pallets and 54 passengers, or 66 stretchers, with a maximum payload of 37 tonnes.
Loads can also be delivered by parachute, gravity extraction from the aircraft’s rear ramp (influenced by the cargo’s own weight).
Atlas C.1 (A400M) Recognition
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History of the Atlas C.1 (A400M)
In 1982, France’s Aerospatiale, British Aerospace, West Germany’s MBB, and Lockheed formed the FIMA group to develop a replacement for the C-130 Hercules and Transall C.160. Lockheed left in 1989 to create the C-130J Hercules. Italy’s Alenia and Spain’s CASA joined, forming the Euroflag group, which evolved into Airbus Military in 1995.
Despite funding challenges and setbacks, the A400M design was accepted in 2000 by several European nations.
With its combination of moderately swept wings and powerful turboprop engines, the A400M (Atlas C.1 A400M) is considerably more fuel efficient at lower altitudes than the turbofan C-17, yet faster at higher altitudes than the superlative Hercules. Its capacious hold and excellent payload also place it between the C-17 and Hercules in lifting capability, yet it will ultimately offer all the rough field and tactical flexibility of the latter.
The first flight occurred in 2009, marking a new era in airlift capability. The A400M, known as "Atlas" in RAF service, offers a balance of fuel efficiency, payload, and tactical flexibility. Full operational capability is expected soon after the last of the 22 RAF-ordered aircraft are delivered.
