In 2011, Germany reduced its order of A400M transport aircraft from 60 to 53 units as part of an agreement with Airbus (then EADS) to save the program, which was facing significant difficulties. Germany initially considered settling for 40 aircraft and selling the remaining 13. However, technical issues with the first A400M aircraft delivered to the German Air Force (Luftwaffe), along with their frequent unavailability, strengthened Berlin's stance. Eventually, the plan to sell the 13 aircraft was abandoned. In May, when the Luftwaffe had just taken possession of the 53rd A400M, the website Hartpunkt reported that the German Ministry of Defense was considering ordering an additional 10 to 20 aircraft. Airbus did not confirm these discussions, stating it does not comment on customer talks. Boris Pistorius, the German Defense Minister, mentioned during a visit to Bremen on September 29 that a new order for 16 A400M aircraft was being considered to allow the Luftwaffe to replace aircraft lacking tactical capabilities. According to reports by NDR and Radio Bremen, the Luftwaffe is seriously considering gradually replacing its transport aircraft with new tactical models. Discussions with Airbus are described as "very fruitful," though the exact number of aircraft in the potential order has not been specified. The order must be approved by the Finance Committee of the Bundestag, Germany's parliament. The 53 A400M aircraft will remain in service, as the aircraft being replaced are expected to be "offered for sale," according to NDR. In October 2024, the Bundestag allocated 152 million euros from the special fund of the Bundeswehr for upgrading the Luftwaffe's A400M aircraft to the Block Upgrade 0 (BU0) standard. This upgrade is part of a joint effort with France, the United Kingdom, and Belgium. The German Ministry of Defense explained that the operation aims to ensure the aircraft meet NATO standards, address outdated systems, and eliminate weaknesses. According to Airbus, the A400M will be equipped with collaborative combat capabilities in the future, enabling it to perform strike missions, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. This is part of the PMS (Parallel Mission System) program managed by the Directorate General of Armaments on behalf of the Air and Space Force. The upgrades to the A400M reflect a broader effort to modernize Germany's military capabilities and align with European defense initiatives. As the Luftwaffe continues to assess its needs, the potential for additional aircraft orders remains under consideration, highlighting the ongoing importance of the A400M in Germany's strategic and tactical operations.