Airbus A400M

The Airbus A400M Atlas is a four-engine transport aircraft that has both tactical and strategic capabilities. Larger than a C-130 Hercules and smaller than the C-17, the A400M was originally developed to replace the Hercules and C-160 in European service. In addition to the transport role, the Atlas can be used as an aerial refuelling aircraft or for medical evacuation. 

In 2001, Belgium signed a bilateral agreement with Luxembourg to jointly acquire and operate a fleet of Airbus A400M. As part of the agreement, Belgium ordered seven aircraft and Luxembourg ordered an eighth, with deliveries from Airbus completing during February 2024. All eight aircraft are based at Melsbroek Air Base, part of Brussels Airport. Seven aircraft fly in the markings of the Belgian Air Force and the eighth carries Luxembourg markings to reflect the aircrafts ownership and that the 15th Wings aircraft are operated by crews from both air forces. 

The Belgian Air Force will be celebrating their 80th anniversary at this year’s Air Tattoo and will be sending one of their A400M aircraft for static display. 

Photo Credit: Stuart Freer