As reported by FlightGlobal on September 19, 2024, Airbus Defence & Space expects to deliver Indonesia’s first of two A400M tactical transport aircraft by late 2025. Ed Horne, senior product advisor for air mobility at Airbus, indicated that Indonesia’s versions will be equipped with underwing pods designed for refueling combat aircraft. The second aircraft is scheduled to follow in 2026, shortly after the first.
Horne made these remarks on September 19 at the Bali International Air Show 2024 during a media tour of a German Air Force A400M displayed in the show’s static park. The aircraft on display is configured for air-to-air refueling and features underwing hose-and-drogue refueling pods for fighters, as well as a centerline hose installed in the turboprop’s ramp. This centerline hose can deliver 50% greater fuel flow than the wing-mounted pods and is optimized for refueling larger aircraft, such as other A400Ms. However, the centerline refueling station limits the aircraft’s cargo transport capability due to the installation of two large fuel tanks and extensive piping inside the cargo hold.
Indonesia’s A400Ms will maintain a clean cargo hold to perform transport duties while still providing air-to-air refueling capabilities using the underwing pods. Horne explained that the refueling pods for helicopters look identical to those used for fighters but contain longer hoses to remain clear of a helicopter’s rotor disc.