Industry sources say talks are underway to buy 15 to 20 new A400M military transporters. The aircraft could serve in future as carriers for drones or cruise missiles.
The Bundestag budget committee approved commitment authorizations of 3.59 billion euros through 2032 for possible acquisitions in early July. The previous limit stood at just over 1.4 billion euros.
Airbus Defence and Space and the Defense Ministry declined to comment on the talks. Further negotiations are planned for the second half of the year.
The Air Force received the last of its 53 ordered A400M in April. Germany is by far the largest operator of the type, of which 138 units have been built worldwide.
