A400M - Airbus Heavylift

This, in all its computer generated glory, is the new venture of Airbus, the A400M military transporter. It is aimed as a Hercules replacement, and considering there aren't too many in that category being developed right now, it is expected to have a decent run amongst the large number of Hercules operators who will be looking for a replacement pretty soon. It is a high performance bird, capable of mach .72 cruise at FL370. Four huge European turboprops power it, and these engines are not only more fuel efficient than turbofans, but are also more advanced as even propeller controls have been brought into the FADEC. Of course, this one is facing delays as well, but hopefully things wont go as bad as it did with the 380. Of course, I might as well state here that i believe that once the problems are cleared and she enters service this October, the 380 is gonna prove successful and more orders would follow. Meanwhile, some more A400M pics , all the best to this first dedicated aircraft of airbus military (after 310 and 330 MRTTs :) ). Can't wait to see her in the skies...Airbus flight decks are great as a rule, but this one further ups the ante. Twin HUDs too, btw.Hopefully a sight that's coming soon to an airbase near you :) Also, cant help but comment on the 3D renders released so far. They have been of great quality, giving an excellent idea of the aircrafts capabilities. I'm not saying that this is a guarantee of performance or anything, its just that airplane buffs can get a better idea and start having fun arguing on a.net :) Now if only they'd hire these same guys to do some renders on the XWB...