Originally Posted by Been There...
Can I ask why you would need to move a MBT by air?
After working on the UK C17MBT trials, I was given this answer to the same question. As to it's accuracy I cannot vouch, however it seemed logical to me at the time.
Because MBT operate in a formation, like A/C. If 1 of the formation becomes u/s, the entire formation is withdrawn.
Therefore, there could be a need to replace the u/s MBT in toto, rather than a simple repair job. To do so by traditional methods (Sea or over-land) could take up to 6 weeks. To do so by air would probably take less than 48 hours, meaning the formation could be returned to the front line much, much sooner.
The need to carry an MBT is not for initial deployment, but rather for the purpose which mostly everyone forgets the AT fleet do day , day out, the continual re-supply role.
Back on topic though;
The A400 is statistically important in other ways.
The J, although capable in many ways, cannot physically carry a lot of modern vehicles that the Army currently possess, or wish to possess, that much is agreed by virtually everyone.
Yes, the C17 can carry virtually all of these, but it was deemed preferrable on it's introduction that it would be used for hub and spoke operations.
If Albert is replaced by A400Ms, this hub and spoke can continue, hence keeping the "valuable" asset safer.
If, god forbid, we did lose another A/C in theatre, would it be financially better to lose an A400M load, or a C17 load? Please remember the MoD is no longer in charge of it's own procurement, it is politicians, statisticians and accountants.