Airbus in Talks with Emirati Firms for A400M Production and Maintenance Contracts
UAE Could Assemble A400M Parts if It Purchases Aircraft from Airbus to Renew Its Military Fleet
Airbus is negotiating with the Emirati companies Strata Manufacturing and Ammroc to offer them contracts for production and maintenance packages of the A400M military transport aircraft, aiming to secure its first sale in the Middle East.
According to Gerd Weber, A400M Program Director, speaking at a press conference on Tuesday during the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX 2025) in Abu Dhabi, Airbus seeks to relocate part of the fuselage manufacturing to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a move that would boost skilled employment and strengthen the aerospace sector in the country.
“We are engaged in intense discussions with our UAE partners to localize part of the production here. Even some of the primary production systems could likely be carried out in the UAE. We are ready to make it happen,” Weber stated. “This will bring many complex jobs, advanced aircraft manufacturing to the country, and we sincerely believe it will be a great benefit for everyone.”
According to the Emirati news outlet The National, the European aerospace giant estimates that the region may need 30 to 40 new A400M military transport aircraft, with the UAE potentially acquiring between 8 and 10 planes to replace its C-130 fleet starting in 2028. Saudi Arabia is also a key potential buyer, with a possible acquisition of 15 to 20 aircraft. Airbus presents the A400M as the ideal replacement for the C-130, highlighting its greater cargo capacity, range, and versatility.
Additionally, Airbus seeks to expand its collaboration with Strata, which already manufactures components for the company’s commercial aircraft, and to develop an export model for aerospace parts from the UAE. Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus in Africa and the Middle East, stated that the company is ready to proceed as soon as the contract is signed.
Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE are working to diversify their economies to reduce reliance on oil and gas exports, leveraging their defense purchases to stimulate local industry through technology transfers from supplier companies.
Apasionado por la aviación, la historia, la política y la defensa. Editor-in-Chief en Aviacionline Defensa, combinando estos conocimiento para ofrecer un contenido valioso sobre temas estratégicos y de seguridad.
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