Airbus Shines the Spotlight on A330 MRTT & A400M `ATLAS` at IDEF`23
Airbus, a global leader in the defence and aerospace industry, took its place in 16th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF'23), highlighting its multirole tanker A330 MRTT and A400M “Atlas” airlifter at the exhibition. The multirole tanker A330 MRTT stands out as a cutting-edge aerial refueling and strategic transport aircraft that provides enhanced capabilities to meet evolving defense needs and the A400M “Atlas" airlifter, the four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft was designed by Airbus Defence and Space as a tactical airlifter with strategic capabilities. Showcasing a wide array of products and technologies that exemplify its expertise and commitment to innovation, Airbus also gave visitors the opportunity to discover the wide range of helicopter options it has to offer.
At the event, Airbus presents its wide range of innovative products, advanced technologies, and collaborative solutions, underscoring the company's commitment to the defence and space sectors. Visitors have the opportunity to explore Airbus' cutting-edge capabilities and engage in discussions about future collaborations and industry advancements until the end of the exhibition.
Simon Ward, President of Airbus Türkiye, expressed his excitement about Airbus' participation in IDEF'23, stating, "We are excited to meet with our partners and stakeholders to discuss their needs and how we can work together to shape the future of the defense, aerospace, and aviation industries." Ward further emphasized Airbus' dedication to Türkiye's aviation sector, stating, "We have been working with Türkiye for over 40 years, and we are proud to be a part of the country's ever-growing aviation sector."
A330 MRTT: New Generation Multi Role Tanker Transport
One of the highlights of Airbus' showcase at IDEF'23 is the highly acclaimed A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport). In the competitive military marketplace, the A330 MRTT has established itself as the benchmark in its category, emerging victorious in numerous competitions across Europe, Asia, and the Arabian Peninsula.
The A330 MRTT is a versatile platform that excels in three distinct missions. Its most notable capability lies in its aerial refueling mission, with the ability to carry an impressive 111 tonnes of fuel, setting a new standard for tanker aircraft. A key feature is the center-line Aerial Refueling Boom System (ARBS), a fly-by-wire controlled mechanism that ensures a rapid fuel flow rate, making it the most capable new-generation boom available. Additionally, the aircraft can be equipped with pods under each wing for hose and drogue refueling, as well as an under-fuselage hose and drogue unit.
In addition to its aerial refueling prowess, the A330 MRTT serves as a highly efficient transport aircraft. It boasts a spacious main deck capable of accommodating up to 300 passengers or can be arranged in a medical evacuation configuration to carry 40 stretchers and 20 seats for medical staff, alongside 100 passengers. The lower lobe of the aircraft can accommodate up to 37 tonnes of cargo, equivalent to 27 LD3 containers or eight military pallets, providing flexibility for various operational requirements.
The outstanding attributes of the A330 MRTT have garnered significant attention from around the world, resulting in orders exceeding 60 aircraft. Among the esteemed customers are Australia, France, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, as well as the Multi-role Tanker Transport program of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), which involves Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, and Luxembourg.
A400M "ATLAS": Redefining Airlift Capabilities
Another highlight of Airbus' booth at IDEF'23 is the A400M "Atlas',' the most advanced, proven, and certified airlifter available. With its state-of-the-art technologies, the A400M has revolutionized the capabilities required by modern armed forces, including TurAF (Turkish Armed Forces), fulfilling both current and upcoming operational needs.
The A400M combines the ability to transport strategic loads with the flexibility to deliver to tactical locations, even on small and unprepared airstrips. It is a true multirole platform that can function as a frontline tanker while carrying out its primary airlift missions.
As the most advanced and certified airlifter currently in operation, the A400M has become the aircraft of choice for many armed forces. Its large cargo bay can accommodate critical equipment that would not fit in previous-generation tactical airlifters, such as heavy helicopters, infantry fighting vehicles, or humanitarian excavators. The A400M's exceptional range, speed, altitude, payload, and tactical performance surpass those of its predecessors, enabling game-changing capabilities to be delivered directly to the point of need. Whether it be supporting operations in a theater of conflict or responding to natural disasters, the A400M's combined strategic and tactical capabilities allow for cost-effective and rapid crisis response. Additionally, the A400M has proven its value in supporting humanitarian and disaster relief operations, as well as VIP transport.
Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including four unique EuroProp International (EPI) TP 400 turboprop engines, the A400M possesses exceptional capabilities for strategic/logistic missions. It has a range of up to 4,800 nautical miles (8,900 km), a cruising altitude of up to 37,000 ft (11,300 m), and a speed of up to Mach 0.72, comparable to that of turbofan-powered airlifters. Additionally, the A400M can operate at altitudes up to 40,000 ft (12,200 m) for special operations. These capabilities enable the A400M to respond rapidly to crises, cover greater distances within a single crew duty day, and operate above adverse weather conditions, reducing crew and passenger fatigue.
H125M, H145, and H160M: Versatile Helicopter Solutions for Military Operations
Airbus is also showcasing its diverse range of helicopters at IDEF'23, including the H125M, H145, and H160M. These rotorcraft demonstrate Airbus' commitment to providing cost-effective, highly capable, and adaptable solutions for military applications.
The H125M is Airbus' two-tonne helicopter that perfectly meets the requirements for a cost-effective armed rotorcraft with excellent maneuverability and a small footprint. As the most capable armed scout helicopter in its category, the H125M combines performance, discretion, and firepower. Designed for versatility, the H125M excels in various tasks such as training, tactical transport, intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance (ISTAR), and armed reconnaissance or light attack missions. It boasts power, simplicity, firing stability, and stealthiness, allowing it to successfully carry out demanding operations.
Designed to deliver excellent performance across the flight envelope, the H145 is the latest addition to Airbus' four-tonne-class twin-engine rotorcraft product range. Its compact size, small footprint, and spacious cabin make it the helicopter of choice for a wide range of civil and military missions. Featuring a flat floor from nose to tail and an unobstructed cabin, the H145 offers exceptional flexibility. It can accommodate one or two pilots and up to eight passengers in its standard configuration, or up to 10 passengers in a higher-density setup. The cabin's versatility, combined with a wide range of optional equipment such as emergency floats, rescue hoists, searchlights, and cargo hooks, allows the H145 to excel in emergency medical services, law enforcement, aerial work, passenger transport, private and business aviation, and offshore operations.
The H160M is a part of the Joint Light Helicopter (hélicoptère interarmées léger – HIL) program approved by the French state. The H160M offers modularity and versatility to cover a wide range of missions assigned to the HIL program. It can quickly transition from light attack operations, commando infiltration, air intercept, fire support, and anti-ship warfare to search and rescue operations with up to two stretchers. Additional capabilities include a fast rope system, cargo hook, and hoist, making it a true all-in-one asset for modern militaries. Derived from the EASA-certified H160, the H160M represents a new generation of helicopters. It boasts low operating costs, optimized flight safety, and incorporates the latest technological achievements in French aeronautics.
The H125M, H145, and H160M helicopters exemplify Airbus' dedication to delivering versatile and highly capable solutions for military operations.
A key partner of Türkiye in Military Aviation and Space Since 1990
Airbus has been a key partner of Türkiye in military aviation and space since 1990, positioning itself as a trusted and reliable liaison. To further strengthen its presence, Airbus Defence and Space Turkey (ADSTR) was established in November 2013 as a 100 percent Airbus subsidiary. ADSTR plays a crucial role in fulfilling in-service support responsibilities, such as the maintenance and material support for the A400M fleet and the CN235 transport aircraft operated by the Turkish Air Force (TurAF).
Airbus Defence and Space Turkey actively contributes to Turkish Armed Forces (TurAF) A400M services, modernization, and material support for CN235. TurAF operates the state-of-the-art A400M Atlas, with 10 aircraft ordered and delivered, and boasts the largest fleet of CN235 transport aircraft, with 58 aircraft in operation. With the material and services support of ADSTR, TurAF has achieved a high fleet availability of 85% for the A400M fleet and 80% for the CN235 fleet, holding the highest fleet availability amongst A400M nations. ADSTR is committed to providing long-term in-service support to ensure the continued success of these fleets.
Airbus was also awarded the contract for Türksat 5A & 5B telecommunication satellites in 2017. The first Türksat 5A satellite was delivered in late 2020 and successfully launched in January. In November 2021, the Türksat 5B telecommunication satellite was handed over to Türksat in a ceremony held at Airbus Defence and Space facilities in France. Both satellites are now operational, solidifying Airbus' position as a trusted partner in Türkiye's space industry. Airbus aims to further support Turkish space projects, including upcoming military intelligence satellite initiatives such as the replacement of the Göktürk-1 EO Satellite of the Turkish Air Force, to establish a long-term partnership with Türkiye in the space domain.
Airbus Helicopters also maintains a strong presence in Türkiye, with significant military contracts signed in the 1990s for the delivery of helicopters. Türkiye is the world's largest Cougar operator, with a fleet of 46 helicopters operated by the Turkish Land Forces and Air Force for general-purpose and Search-and-Rescue missions. Airbus Helicopters has initiated studies for the modernization of the Turkish Forces' aging Cougar helicopter fleet, demonstrating its commitment to providing ongoing support.
In the civil and parapublic helicopter market, Airbus Helicopters is actively involved in Türkiye's emergency medical services segment. The Turkish Aeronautical Association operates thirteen EC-135 helicopters on behalf of the Turkish Ministry of Health, catering to medical needs across the country. Additionally, ten civil Airbus Helicopters models, including the H130 and H145, are utilized in various private, business, and passenger transport roles, contributing to Türkiye's aviation sector
