Airbus Military and TP400 engine supplier Europrop International have resolved a dispute linked to the late-running A400M transport programme with the signature of an amended agreement.
"The agreement settles all outstanding issues between the two companies," according to a statement issued by EPI - a consortium between ITP, MTU Aero Engines, Rolls-Royce and Snecma. It was signed in Toulouse, France, by EPI president Simon Henley and Airbus Military's head of propulsion procurement, Erik Buschmann.
"This agreement marks another important milestone in the programme and highlights the desire of both EPI and Airbus Military to work closely together to deliver an engine and aircraft combination that will set new standards in the military transport market," said Henley.
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© Airbus MilitaryEuroprop International TP400 engine |
EPI said that its 11,000shp (8,200kW) TP400 design has amassed over 5,000 flight hours and "completed all certification testing". Civil certification is expected to be secured soon.
Airbus Military is expected to hand over its first A400M to the French air force in late 2012 or early 2013, having originally pledged to achieve the milestone in November 2009. It signed an amended contract with Europe's OCCAR procurement agency on 7 April to clear the way for the production of 170 aircraft for Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Spain, Turkey and the UK. Export buyer Malaysia will also receive four under a separate deal.
Source: Flight International
