Ratier-Figeac is the French word for 'propellers' and is
hoping to become the European term, too. Now that the Airbus A400M
military airlifter has been finally launched by its nine European
and/or NATO partners and a 10,500-shp turboprop engine chosen,
the time has come to turn attention to the last part of the propulsion
system, for which a decision on the successful contractor is expected
before the end of July. This representation of the eight-blade,
17.5 ft carbon composites monster offered by Ratier-Figeac is
being prepared for scrutiny on the company's stand Hall 2A/E15.
Paul Jackson
