The Defence and Security Department's Politics and Engineering Working Group analyses current political developments in the defence sector. It provides independent facts and interpretation from the technological knowledge and experience of engineers.
The working group has the recommendations below on the DMP-B proposal dated 16 June 2022 from the Secretary of State for Defence for replacement of the C130 transport aircraft. These have been prepared based on publicly available documents and defence technology knowledge and experience. The comments and questions concern technological or related aspects only. As part of KIVI, the working group is independent of political parties, governments and companies.
The working group is surprised by Defence's quick decision to definitively choose the Embraer C-390M already in the DMP-B phase. Why was e.g. the Airbus A400M not chosen, which Belgium and Germany fly.
A brief and limited analysis of the differences between the candidates and the A400M give the working group the impression that the A400M was only rejected on price. Perhaps the Secretary of State can confirm this.
Of the important qualitative requirements listed in the DMP-B, the A400M needs the shortest runway length. However, there are obviously other requirements the aircraft must meet.
In addition, there could be much more maintenance cooperation with nearby partners Germany and Belgium, joint operations, etc.
Also, the A400M would be a contribution to Defence's policy objective for European cooperation and strategic autonomy.
A few advantages that aviation specialists in the working group see in the described choice of the Embraer C390M over the C130J are easier operations, less maintenance, and the number of flight hours, which can be realised. Four engines require more maintenance than two.
Another advantage for the C390M over the C130J is the relatively new Airframe. Continuing to develop new aircraft on older proven technology has advantages, but also disadvantages. This has been demonstrated again in civil aviation with the 737Max.
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The Hague, 22 June 2022
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Disclaimer: The facts and opinions given are based on open sources and on the knowledge and experience of working group members.
This is not an official position of KIVI. The association accepts no liability for anything put forward by the working group or its members.
Photo: Ministry of Defence
