That back in August was the 49th delivered btw - but the 50th ordered, with Luftwaffe designation "54+50".
The reason is that the A400M with the Luftwaffe designation "54+35" (i.e. the 35th unit) was temporarily retained by Airbus and used as a testbed for integration of Elbit's J-MUSIC DIRCM system for the Luftwaffe. It's planned to refit this system on a further 23 German A400M during their regular maintenance overhaul intervals over the next six years; order for this by Germany was signed in June for the A400M. The same system is also being installed on Luftwaffe C-130J and A350 (one of which already has it installed).
Following completion of testing "54+35" was delivered as the actual 50th unit five weeks later on September 11th. The remaining 3 ordered aircraft are planned for delivery next year.
Last edited: