Indonesia’s recent induction of the A400M Atlas tactical airlifter marks a significant leap in the nation’s airlift capabilities and preparedness levels, according to data and analytics company GlobalData.
Earlier in November 2025, Airbus Defence and Space delivered the first A400M military transport aircraft to the Indonesian Ministry of Defence (MoD), making Indonesia the tenth nation to operate the aircraft.
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The investment is part of Indonesia’s air mobility modernisation programme.
GlobalData’s latest report, “Indonesia Defence Market Size, Trends, Budget Allocation, Regulations, Acquisitions, Competitive Landscape and Forecast to 2030,” states that Indonesia’s defence budget is set at $11.8bn for 2025. This reflects a compound annual growth rate of 7.7% from 2021 to 2025.
The report projects the budget will reach $16.9bn by the end of this decade, with a compound annual growth rate of 7.3% from 2026 to 2030. Increased spending is expected to support Indonesia’s wider defence modernisation plans during this period.
The A400M is a military transport aircraft powered by four turboprop engines and designed to carry heavy and oversized consignments.
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By GlobalDataIndonesia’s variant of the A400M is equipped for transporting freight, moving personnel, conducting medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), supporting humanitarian operations, and performing aerial refuelling.
Airbus claims that the aircraft has the capacity to transport as much as 37 tonnes (t) of large or heavy cargo, including vehicles, helicopters, and emergency aid supplies.
When loaded with an average payload of 30t, it can fly up to 2,400 nautical miles from Jakarta.
These features strengthen Indonesia’s rapid response options for troop deployment, logistics, and special operations.
The addition of the A400M enables enhanced cooperation with international partners by supporting joint exercises and interoperability.
GlobalData aerospace and defence analyst Sai Kiran said: “Located at the heart of a key maritime trade route in Southeast Asia, Indonesia faces a complex environment shaped by great-power rivalry, territorial disputes, and frequent natural disasters.
“Consequently, Indonesia’s defence procurement strategy emphasizes mobility, resilience, and multi-mission capability for both defence and humanitarian operations. The A400M aligns well with these requirements. The acquisition comes amid broader defence modernisation efforts across Southeast Asia, driven by rising territorial disputes among countries in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean.”
With this new airlifter, Indonesia strengthens its ability to maintain patrols, support maritime surveillance missions, reinforce forward bases, and contribute to regional security.
The airlift expansion also increases support for United Nations peacekeeping deployments and multinational humanitarian assistance operations.
“Continued investment in maintenance facilities, crew training, and international exercise participation will be critical to maximising the platform’s value. If implemented effectively, the A400M programme will enhance Indonesia’s standing as a key regional player, while delivering long-term operational and strategic benefits,” Kiran added.
