Indonesia has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus A400M Atlas military transport aircraft, marking a major milestone in the country’s defence modernisation programme and strengthening its strategic airlift capabilities.
Delivery Ceremony in Jakarta
On 3 November 2025, Airbus Defence and Space delivered the first A400M Atlas to the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) at a ceremony held at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base in Jakarta. The aircraft had been formally handed over earlier this year at Airbus’s final assembly line in Seville, Spain, before undergoing final preparations for operational deployment.
Indonesia becomes the tenth global operator of the A400M and the second in Southeast Asia, after Malaysia. The country ordered two A400Ms in 2021, with the second aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2026.
Strategic Capabilities
The A400M is a multi-role heavy transport aircraft capable of carrying up to 37 tonnes of cargo, including helicopters, armoured vehicles, and humanitarian aid supplies. It can also perform aerial refuelling missions and operate from short or unpaved runways, making it particularly suited to Indonesia’s vast archipelagic geography and frequent disaster-relief operations.
The aircraft will be operated by Squadron 31, the TNI-AU’s elite strategic airlift unit, and is expected to play a central role in both military logistics and humanitarian assistance, especially in response to earthquakes, tsunamis, and other natural disasters that frequently affect the region.
Defence Modernisation Drive
The acquisition is part of Indonesia’s broader effort to modernise its armed forces and expand its regional defence posture. Alongside the A400M, Jakarta has also invested in Rafale fighter jets, submarines, and unmanned aerial systems as it seeks to strengthen deterrence and enhance interoperability with international partners.
Airbus executives hailed the delivery as a “strong demonstration of trust” in the A400M’s capabilities, while Indonesian defence officials described the aircraft as a cornerstone of the nation’s long-term airlift strategy.
Outlook
With the A400M now in service, Indonesia is expected to significantly enhance its ability to conduct long-range deployments, regional peacekeeping missions, and rapid disaster response operations. Defence analysts suggest the acquisition could pave the way for additional orders in the future, as the TNI-AU evaluates its long-term strategic lift requirements.
Sources:
- Airbus – Press Release
- AeroTime – Indonesia Takes Delivery
- The Defense Post – Indonesia Welcomes First A400M
Airbus A400M Atlas Airbus Military Plane Picture by Laurent ERRERA
