Projection lies at the core of strategic functions and armed forces’ involvement in operations. It allows the implementation of a full range of actions, from preventive diplomacy to offensive action, as part of major military operations and stabilisation operations, on national territory as well as abroad.

Projection capability does not only amount to mere logistics aimed at delivering a payload at a given distance and on time. The aircraft fleet with its aircrews making up this capability must be able to engage the armed force, to support it, to back it up through transport, airdrop and air-to-air refuelling operations, as close as possible to the action and sometimes in the heart of combat.

The A400M was designed and developed to be capable of assuming the full range of these missions. As the future centrepiece of the projection capability, its range and payload will help fill the capability gap evidenced in the strategic field of forces support. Its operational and technical performances will enable the replacement of an ageing fleet at a lower operating cost. The phased fielding of the aircraft will help French forces preserve a significant tactical capability to meet the different conditions of their engagement. This capability, built on long-held operational experience, is only offered by a few air forces throughout the world.