The response: The A400M

Powerplant

In order to fulfil the requirement of both strategic and tactical mission performance, the A400M is powered by new-generation TP400-D6 turboprop engines. Four turboprops each rated at over 11 000 shp contribute to excellent performance characteristics which enable A400M to transport a variety of loads and personnel over long distances at high cruise speed. The TP400-D6 is being developed, manufactured and supported by EuroProp International (EPI), a European joint venture company consisting of Rolls-Royce, Snecma Moteurs, MTU Aero Engines and Industria deTurbopropulsores (ITP).

The powerplant uses Ratier-Figeac FH386 propellers that allows the aircraft to fly up to a cruise speed of Mach 0.72.

The propeller blades are of composite construction, having a carbon spar and a composite shell. A polyurethane coating is applied on the shell to protect against erosion. Electrical de-icing is used along the leading edge. The outer part of the blade leading edge has a nickel guard to protect against erosion.

Propeller control is integrated into the FADEC, thus reducing pilot workload. The FADEC controls the blade pitch angle in order to maintain the propeller at a constant, optimum-efficiency speed. It also provides an autofeathering capability upon automatic detection of an engine failure.

Turboprops provide the optimum combination of take-off and landing performance, cruise fuel efficiency and tactical mission performance such as manoeuvring on the ground, steep descents and air-dropping. A turboprop engine consumes 20% less fuel per mission relative to a turbofan, leading to lower operating weights, and hence lower acquisition and operating costs and optimised payload.