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End of Mission

After several decades of loyal service, the French Air and Space Force's Airbus A310 and A340 aircraft have been compulsorily retired. These aircraft, long used for strategic transport missions and support to the highest government authorities, are making way for a new generation of more modern and versatile aircraft.

Two Civil Aircraft in the Service of Defense

The Airbus A310 and A340, although originally civilian aircraft, were integrated into the French Air Force fleet through requisition or second-hand purchase for government and strategic missions. They were primarily concentrated on ET 03.060 "Esterel," a unit based at Air Base 107 in Villacoublay (Yvelines).

Retirement of the Airbus A310:

The official retirement of the Airbus A310 took place in 2020. The A310s had been used by the French Air Force since the early 1990s, primarily for strategic transport and logistical support missions.The A310s were gradually replaced by the Airbus A330 MRTT "Phénix" starting in 2019, a more modern and versatile aircraft.

Retirement of the Airbus A340:

The French Air Force's last Airbus A340 was retired in 2022. Acquired second-hand in 2006 from Air France, the two A340-200s were adapted to military needs without major modifications. Their primary mission was the transport of officials, but also logistical support for external operations. Their long range made them particularly suited to intercontinental flights.

The Renewal: A330 MRTT "Phénix"

The A310 and A340 were replaced by the Airbus A330 MRTT "Phénix," a multi-purpose aircraft capable of carrying troops, cargo, passengers, and in-flight refueling.

The retirement of these aircraft is part of a major modernization plan for the French strategic transport fleet. The Ministry of the Armed Forces has opted for the Airbus A330 MRTT (Multi-Role Tanker Transport), known as the "Phénix" in its French version. This aircraft, which serves as a refueling, cargo, and passenger or casualty transport aircraft, offers significantly increased flexibility and range.

The MRTT can replace the A310, A340, and some C-135 tanker aircraft, as part of a rationalization strategy. The A330 Phénix is capable of transporting up to 272 passengers or refueling several Rafale fighters in flight, making it essential for projection operations.

End of Life Aircraft

Despite their reliability, the A310s and A340s suffered from aging technology. Their older engines were fuel-hungry, and maintenance was becoming increasingly costly, particularly due to the scarcity of spare parts. Furthermore, these aircraft no longer meet current environmental standards or the stealth and operational modularity requirements of modern armed forces.

An Aviation Heritage

The departure of these iconic aircraft marks the end of a cycle in the history of French strategic transport. While not originally designed for combat, the A310s and A340s fulfilled their missions with rigor and efficiency in the service of France. They leave behind an important operational legacy and a successful transition to more modern capabilities.

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