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German Transall Retirement

The Retirement of the Luftwaffe's C-160 Transall: End of an Era for an Iconic Aircraft After more than six decades of service, the Luftwaffe has officially retired the famous C-160 Transall military transport aircraft. This aircraft, which marked the history of German military aviation, is now retiring, making way for a new generation of more modern transport aircraft.

A Historic and Versatile Aircraft

The C-160 Transall, the result of a Franco-German collaboration initiated in the 1950s, was designed to meet the logistical needs of the armed forces. Entering service in the early 1960s, it quickly demonstrated its remarkable capabilities in transporting troops, equipment, and humanitarian aid, even in difficult conditions.

With its robustness, range, and ability to operate from rough airfields, the Transall established itself as a mainstay of Luftwaffe air operations for over 60 years. It has participated in numerous international missions, from peacekeeping operations to emergency response in disaster zones.

A Necessary Retirement to Meet Future Challenges

The retirement of the C-160 Transall comes at a time when air force modernization is essential. Despite its qualities, the aircraft is now reaching its limits in terms of technology, capacity, and maintenance costs.

The Luftwaffe has therefore decided to gradually replace it with more efficient transport aircraft, notably the A400M Atlas, a larger, faster aircraft capable of carrying heavier loads over longer distances. This renewal is essential to ensure the Luftwaffe's ability to meet the military and humanitarian challenges of the 21st century.

A Tribute to a Legendary Aircraft

The departure of the Transall is experienced with emotion by former pilots and personnel who worked on this aircraft. It symbolizes not only a turning of the page, but also a valuable technological and operational legacy.

Ceremonies were held to mark this transition, highlighting the historic importance of the C-160 in the history of German military aviation. While the Transall officially retires, its role in defense and international cooperation will remain etched in our memories.

The Luftwaffe's last C-160 Transall was retired from service at the end of 2021. Specifically, the official retirement took place on December 31, 2021, with the disbandment of the LTG 63 transport squadron.

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