http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6h8i8wrajA&feature=related
…65.000 tons 😉

One of the problems the A400M has is operational costs. Very expensive in peace time. One can fly a Hercules at a more or less reasonable price in peace time ops, but not an A400M.

And the fact remains that they are just duplicating the An-70 at a unit price of a C-17.

And another fact is, that a C-17 has by far higher operating costs, compared to A-400M and the SALIS solution.
We had one recovery vehicle and 4 Marder IFV’s transported to A-stan by C-17’s, and the bill was astronomic.
So, if we want the capability to transport Pumas and APC’s around we can either go for the much more expansive C-17 or stick with the A-400M/SALIS and save much money.
Crucial point is the capability of the A-400M to lift 32 tons, which seems to be a problem at the moment.

It is not about buying the Mi-26, it is about cooperation. To be precise: if the gearbox of the Mi-26 could be modified to reach the weight and maintenance goals, Mil will get a part of the cake.
http://www.rotor-rescue.net/pdf/rrj07_06_2.pdf

Pardon, it is presented as offset for the F-16 procurement.

Well, I never thought I would defend that decision by Poland, but just let us stick to the facts.
The campaign by LM stressed always that Gripen is not NATO compatible (same strategy as in the Czech Republik an Hungary). Additionally, they offered a damn large offset package, an even large weapons package and half of the deal is paid by the US taxpayer,

Unlikely, the lucky GAF will recieve the T2 models. Of the 15 EFs destined for the Austrian AF, the first 9 are built as T1 so I assume this is also a T1 model.

The only problem with this story is, the German MoD is not informed about this “gift”. The spokesman of the German MoD, Peer Eickenboom denied that there is an agreement about this.