Written question asked by Mark Francois (Conservative) on Tuesday, 2 July 2019, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 July 2019 (named day). It was answered by Stuart Andrew (Conservative) on Monday, 8 July 2019 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

A400M Aircraft: Repairs and Maintenance

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if she will publish the (a) problems with the (i) engines and (ii) gearbox of the A400M aircraft and (b) extent of the work required to address those problems.

Answer: The A400M's engine, the TP-400, is provided by EuroProp International, a subcontractor to Airbus. Problems have been seen on combustion chambers on early versions of the TP-400 degrading at a faster rate than expected; these are currently being replaced with an improved design. The engine's propeller gearbox has also experienced some issues due to faulty components; these are being replaced with new and redesigned parts. This work will be undertaken during periods of planned maintenance to avoid further impacting availability and is expected to be completed by mid-2020. There is no cost to the Ministry of Defence as it is covered by contractual warranties.

Secondary information