The second production Airbus Military A400M has successfully completed its first engine runs as it begins final preparation for its maiden flight later this month.

The aircraft, known as MSN8, is now undergoing taxying trials outside the A400M Final Assembly Line in Seville, Spain.

Airbus Military expects to complete four A400M aircraft in 2013 and will deliver MSN8 to the French Air Force in the third quarter of the year.