Airbus has signed two significant contracts with the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), an international entity based in Bonn, Germany, which oversees the A400M program on behalf of the Launch Customer Nations: Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Turkey, Belgium, and Luxembourg. These agreements, named A400M Global Support Services (GSS3) and Block Upgrade 0, are designed to further enhance the aircraft’s operational capabilities.
Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space, emphasized the importance of the A400M, stating, “The A400M is a clear enabler of the sovereignty of our nations and the strategic autonomy of Europe. Global deployments, like the Kabul airlift mission and the recent Pacific Skies exercise, highlight the necessity for interoperability and commonality among our customer nations. This new framework agreement addresses this increasing need. With 130 A400Ms in service and over 200,000 flight hours completed, this new agreement allows our customers to benefit from substantial savings while maintaining the highest standard of service and performance.”
Joachim Sucker, OCCAR-EA Director, added, “Operating a high-end military system like the A400M sustainably requires a robust support framework. The GSS3 contract between OCCAR and Airbus reflects the commitment of A400M user nations to ensure reliable operations even in the most challenging environments. The aircraft’s range, payload, and versatility support a wide array of demanding missions.”
Global Support Services Contract
The new Global Support Services contract, which applies to all A400M user nations, replaces a prior agreement signed in 2019. It provides a comprehensive range of customized support services from Airbus, such as ground equipment, spare parts delivery, and technical assistance. This contract introduces greater flexibility, allowing for collaboration in new areas and the exploration of innovative concepts and services.
GSS3 offers an integrated suite of shared services and assets while accommodating the specific requirements of individual nations. This performance-based agreement encourages fleet availability and cost efficiency through a resource-sharing model and measurable performance indicators.
Block Upgrade 0: Enhanced Capabilities
The second agreement, Block Upgrade 0, represents a critical enhancement of the A400M’s operational capabilities, exceeding the scope of the original launch contract. This upgrade focuses on advancing key systems, including flight management, and ensuring compliance with the latest NATO standards. Enhancements will feature Tactical Information improvements, a Satellite-Based Landing System, Narrowband SATCOM, and onboard Wi-Fi.
Block Upgrade 0 encompasses a comprehensive approach, from development and certification to implementation and ongoing support. The initial phase, currently underway, will conclude by the end of 2026, with subsequent phases, including fleet upgrades and training, extending into the late 2020s.
These upgrades come after a decade of the A400M proving its effectiveness in both combat and humanitarian operations. The enhancements will expand the aircraft’s strategic and tactical capabilities, improve overall performance, and reduce crew workload.
