These upgrades, designated as the "Parallel Mission System" (PMS), are designed to provide the French A400M fleet with multi-mission capabilities in the fields of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, according to the aerospace manufacturer.

The PMS developments involve the integration of a new mission system and tactical situational awareness consoles installed in the cargo hold to control various sensors and coordinate missions. The project also aims to integrate an optronic sensor into the aircraft.

This new mission system is designed to integrate additional sensors and communication tools, while also supporting the management of drones and missiles launched from the aircraft's cargo hold. Ultimately, the crew will be able to coordinate missions involving ground troops, helicopters, and fighter jets in a collaborative combat mode.

Following a development phase, the new equipment will be installed on an initial French A400M in 2027, with flight testing scheduled for 2028. Subsequently, a number of aircraft from the Air and Space Force fleet will be retrofitted with the PMS kit.

Furthermore, Airbus indicates that it is already studying the development of other capabilities for the A400M, such as long-range jamming, a "mother ship" function for the mid-air release of drones and missiles, an increase in payload capacity to 40 tonnes, and firefighting capabilities.