This article is based on an official press release from Sabena technics and additional data regarding the Franco-German defense cooperation.

Sabena technics Secured for 10-Year Support of Franco-German C-130J Fleet

The French Air Force Maintenance Directorate (DMAé) has awarded a major 10-year contract to Sabena technics for the comprehensive support of the Franco-German C-130J Super Hercules fleet. Announced officially in January 2026, the contract, designated “CAROLUS”, marks a significant milestone in European defense integration, consolidating maintenance for a unique binational squadron under a single industrial provider.

According to the official press release from Sabena technics, the agreement covers the entire fleet of 10 aircraft operated by the Binational Air Transport Squadron (BATS) stationed at Évreux-Fauville Air Base 105 in Normandy. The deal encompasses heavy maintenance, logistics, and on-site operational support, ensuring high availability for the critical tactical airlift capabilities shared by France and Germany.

This award reinforces Sabena technics’ standing in the military Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector. The company already supports the French Air-Forces‘s legacy C-130H fleet, and this new contract extends their responsibility to the modern J-model variant through 2036.

The CAROLUS Contract: Scope and Specifications

The CAROLUS contract (Combined Aircraft Repair and Operational Long-term Unified Support) represents a shift toward “verticalized” support contracts favored by the DMAé. Rather than splitting responsibilities among multiple vendors, Sabena technics will act as the prime contractor for a wide array of services designed to maximize fleet readiness.

Key elements of the contract include:

• Heavy Maintenance: Scheduled “Check C” visits and major repairs will be conducted at Sabena technics’ specialized facilities in Bordeaux-Mérignac.
• Operational Support: The company will establish a “technical front office” and logistics hub directly at Évreux Air Base to provide immediate line maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Supply Chain Management: Global management of spare parts and component repairs, supported by a 24/7 technical assistance hotline.
• Airworthiness Management: Full Continuing Airworthiness Management Organization (CAMO) responsibilities to ensure regulatory compliance.

To execute this contract effectively, Sabena technics has solidified partnerships with key Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), including Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce (engines), and Dowty (propellers). These agreements ensure access to proprietary technical data and certified parts, a critical factor for maintaining the advanced C-130J platform.

Supporting the Binational Air Transport Squadron (BATS)

The contract supports the “Rhin/Rhein” squadron, a pioneering unit in European defense. Unlike traditional alliances where nations maintain separate logistics, BATS operates as a fully integrated unit with mixed French and German crews flying aircraft from both nations indiscriminately.

The fleet consists of 10 Lockheed Martin aircraft:

• France: 4 aircraft (2 C-130J-30 transports and 2 KC-130J tankers).
• Germany: 6 aircraft (3 C-130J-30 transports and 3 KC-130J tankers).

The C-130J-30 provides extended fuselage cargo capacity, while the KC-130J variant adds aerial refueling capabilities for helicopters and fighter jets. This fleet fills a capability gap left by the retirement of the C-160 Transall, supporting special forces and humanitarian missions across the globe.

Leadership Perspective

Hervé Grandjean, who was appointed CEO of Sabena technics effective January 1, 2025, highlighted the strategic importance of this win. In the company’s press statement, Grandjean emphasized the scale of the commitment.

This 10-year contract is one of the largest military contracts won by Sabena technics… [it] confirms its strategic position in supporting military transport fleets.

, Hervé Grandjean, CEO of Sabena technics

AirPro News Analysis

Consolidation of European Defense Logistics

The award of the CAROLUS contract to a single provider for a binational fleet is a practical case study in European defense interoperability. Historically, cross-border military cooperation has been hampered by divergent supply chains and maintenance standards. By utilizing the French DMAé as the contracting authority for both nations, France and Germany have successfully streamlined the administrative and industrial burden.

For Sabena technics, this contract serves as a validation of the “Global Support” model. The move to place significant industrial resources directly on a military base (Évreux) mirrors trends seen in the commercial sector, where minimizing aircraft downtime is the primary metric of success. If successful, the BATS support model could serve as a blueprint for future European defense projects, such as the Future Combat Air System (FCAS).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the CAROLUS contract?
The contract runs for 10 years, from 2026 to 2036.

Where will the maintenance be performed?
Heavy maintenance will take place at Sabena technics’ Bordeaux-Mérignac facility, while operational support and logistics will be handled on-site at Évreux Air Base 105.

How many aircraft are included in the contract?
The contract covers 10 aircraft: 4 French and 6 German C-130J Super Hercules.

Who are the key industrial partners?
Sabena technics is the prime contractor, working in partnership with Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce, and Dowty.

Sources

• French Ministry of Armed Forces