This information first surfaced in October 2025, and it has now been confirmed by the German outlet Hartpunkt. Against this background, the question arises of how relevant such a platform could be for Ukraine, even from a purely conceptual perspective.
As Hartpunkt explains, the project involves upgrading the A400M with mission control equipment and launch systems capable of deploying either up to 50 drones of various types or 12 air-launched cruise missiles.
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The wording used is specifically "like Taurus," which suggests missiles with a launch weight of around 1.5 tons and a strike range of approximately 500–700 kilometers. According to the report, work on this concept is already underway for an unnamed customer, although no further details have been disclosed.
The idea of expanding the A400M’s functionality emerged partly due to the fact that the Bundeswehr has already received all 53 aircraft it ordered, making Germany the largest operator of the type. At the same time, Airbus clearly has an interest in attracting new buyers for the A400M by broadening its operational capabilities.
Conceptually, turning the A400M into a cruise missile carrier resembles the U.S. Rapid Dragon program, which involves launching AGM-158 missiles from the C-130 Hercules. That concept drew significant attention from both russia and China, especially in the context of a potential conflict in the Pacific.
To replicate such a project in practice, two key elements are required: first, a sufficiently large fleet of transport aircraft that can be converted into improvised missile carriers, and second, a suitable launch mechanism that can be installed inside the cargo bay.
In the context of wartime Ukraine, having its own system for launching cruise missiles from a transport aircraft could theoretically be an interesting option, for example using an A400M platform with Taurus-class missiles. However, the main issue would be how to protect such an asset, as it would immediately become one of the highest-priority targets for russian strikes.
Ivan Kyrychevskyi, serviceman of the 413th Raid Regiment of the Unmanned Systems Forces of Ukraine and weapons expert at Defense Express.
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