
Air Force upgrades A400M fleet
The German Defense Procurement Agency (BAAINBw) has awarded Airbus a contract to upgrade 23 Airbus A400M transport aircraft with so-called "Directed Infrared Counter Measures" (DIRCM) systems. This initiative aims to significantly improve the survivability of the German Air Force's tactical air transport fleet against infrared-guided missile threats. The integration of the sophisticated defense systems, developed by Israel's Elbit Systems, will autonomously enhance the aircraft's self-protection capabilities and is a sign of a broader trend within NATO to better protect non-combat platforms. Enhanced protection for tactical missions of the German Air Force The Airbus A400M, developed by Airbus Defence and Space, is a versatile four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft. It was designed to perform both strategic and tactical missions. Its capabilities range from the transport of heavy and oversized loads to aerial refueling of other aircraft and medical evacuation. This multifunctionality makes the A400M a central element of the German Air Force, particularly in operations requiring rapid and flexible transport in different operational areas. Gerd Weber, Head of the A400M Program at Airbus Defence and Space, emphasized the aircraft's importance: "The transport of troops, equipment, and humanitarian supplies; the refueling of other aircraft and helicopters in the air; and service as a flying hospital for the treatment of wounded personnel – the Airbus A400M is the face and workhorse of the German Air Force." He further emphasized that the new DIRCM system will provide A400M crews with even greater protection during their worldwide missions and expand the already wide range of applications for this exceptional aircraft. The 23 A400Ms earmarked for the DIRCM upgrade will primarily








