Brazilian manufacturer Embraer has been among the leading global players in the Aerospace sector. It provides a full line of integrated solutions and applications such as Command and Control Center (C4I), radars, ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance) and Space. This also includes integrated systems for information, communications, border monitoring and surveillance as well as aircraft for VIP transportation and special missions. With a growing presence on the global market, Embraer Defense & Security products and solutions are present in more than 60 countries.

Embraer Defense & Security products and solutions are present in more than 60 countries, indicating its growing presence on the global market

Embraer’s C-390 Millenium is a tactical transport jet aircraft designed to set new standards in its category. A joint project between FAB (Brazilian Air Force) and Embraer, the multimission jet aircraft features a rugged design that withstands operations from semi-prepared and damaged runways, as well as harsh environments. It is a multipurpose and highly versatile aircraft designed to perform various missions, including cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, aerial refuelling, firefighting, and humanitarian assistance. The aircraft is also capable of operating in harsh environments, such as high altitudes and hot climates. In October, 2023, the Embraer C-390 Millennium achieved another milestone of ten thousand flight hours with the FAB in just four years.

BRAZILIAN AIR FORCE ORDERS

The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) has been the primary operator and supporter of the Embraer C-390 Millennium. The aircraft has been well-received by the FAB due to its exceptional performance and capabilities. The C-390 has enabled the FAB to enhance its transport and logistics capabilities, supporting various missions, including humanitarian operations and military exercises. In April, 2023, Embraer’s C-390 Millennium achieved Full Operational Capability (FOC) Certificate, issued by Brazil’s Institute of Industrial Development and Coordination (IFI). In June, 2023, Embraer delivered the sixth C-390 multi-mission aircraft to the FAB in FOC configuration, enabling it to fulfill designated missions.

INTERNATIONAL EXPORT ORDERS

Embraer has been actively marketing the C-390 to potential export customers and several countries have expressed interest in acquiring the aircraft. The aircraft has already been ordered by three countries: Portugal, Hungary, and the Netherlands. Order and talks are also on the table with Austria, Czech Republic, South Korea and Saudi Arabia along with building the Indian Air Force’s fleet. Renowned for its multi-mission capability, reliability, and interoperability, the C-390 is redefining military airlift and setting new standards for future generation platforms.

PORTUGUESE AIR FORCE (FAP)

The Portuguese Air Force’s (FAP) decision to acquire five C-390 Millennium aircraft in 2019 marked a significant leap in their modernisation efforts. The €827 million contract not only included the state-of-the-art aircraft but also a highfidelity flight simulator to enhance pilot training. The first C-390 was delivered to the FAP on October 16, 2022, showcasing the aircraft’s cutting-edge capabilities. The remaining four aircraft are scheduled for delivery by February 2027, solidifying the FAP’s commitment to advancing its airlift capabilities. With the C-390s entering service, the FAP is phasing out its aging fleet of Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules aircraft, which have faithfully served the country since the 1960s.

The FAP is eagerly anticipating the operational use of the C-390s, set to commence in early 2023, and has designated Beja Air Base in southern Portugal as the home base for these modern aircraft. On October 19, 2023, the first KC-390 Millennium aircraft of the Portuguese Air Force (FAP) officially entered into service. This achievement followed an extensive flight tests campaign conducted in Portugal through collaboration between Embraer, OGMA, and FAP. Portugal’s involvement in the C-390 programme has had a positive economic impact, generating jobs, investments, exports, and technological advancements.

HUNGARIAN AIR FORCE (HAF)

The Hungarian Air Force (HAF) embarked on a strategic modernisation plan with its acquisition of two C-390 Millennium aircraft in 2020. Valued at €254 million, the contract includes the advanced aircraft and a flight simulator to enhance the training process. The first C-390 is scheduled for delivery in 2023, with the second aircraft to follow in 2024. This acquisition signals a pivotal moment for the HAF, as it seeks to replace its aging fleet of Soviet-era Antonov An-26 aircraft, which have been in service since the 1970s and are reaching the end of their operational life.

The C-390s represent a substantial upgrade to the HAF’s airlift capabilities, boasting a maximum payload capacity of up to 26 tonnes and a ferry range of around 3,370 nautical miles. These capabilities make the aircraft well-suited for a diverse array of missions, including troop transport, cargo delivery, medical evacuation, and humanitarian assistance. Furthermore, the HAF’s participation in international operations will be significantly bolstered by the advanced capabilities of the C-390s, further showcasing the aircraft’s strategic importance in bolstering national and international security efforts.

ROYAL NETHERLANDS AIR FORCE (RNLAF)

The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) also signed a contract for five C-390 Millennium aircraft in June 2021. Valued at an undisclosed amount, the acquisition represents a crucial step in modernising the RNLAF’s fleet. The C-390s, scheduled for delivery between 2024 and 2025, will replace the RNLAF’s aging fleet of Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules aircraft, which have been the backbone of the force’s strategic airlift operations.

The C-390 Millennium’s adaptability and performance capabilities position it as a versatile asset for the RNLAF. The RNLAF recognises the aircraft’s potential in meeting the evolving operational demands of the 21st century. The RNLAF is also considering the potential for additional C-390 acquisitions in the future, with decisions based on their evolving operational requirements and long-term strategic objectives. Contributions from the Dutch ecosystem to the supply chain of the Embraer C-390 programme for export markets will remain a central goal.

AUSTRIAN MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

In a significant move that underscores Austria’s commitment to modernising its tactical transport capabilities, the Austrian Ministry of defence announced its decision to adopt the C-390 Millennium aircraft as its new military transport solution. This strategic selection marks a pivotal moment for Austria’s Air Force and positions Embraer as a valued partner in enhancing European defence capabilities. Austria is expected to replace its aging C-130 Hercules fleet with Embraer’s C-390 military transport aircraft reflecting a strategic vision for enhancing operational capabilities; acquire approximately four aircraft and also explore negotiations with the Netherlands regarding a potential joint order.

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE AND ARMED FORCES OF THE CZECH REPUBLIC

In October 2023, the Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces of the Czech Republic announced the start of negotiations on potential acquisition of the new-generation multi-mission Embraer C-390 Millennium. The Czech Republic aims to procure two C-390 aircraft, a move that promises to bolster its airlift capacity significantly. With these aircraft, the Czech Army will enhance its ability to execute a wide array of missions, including air transport, air assault operations, aerial resupply, medical evacuation, humanitarian aid, air-to-air refueling, and firefighting.

Negotiations are underway with the objective of finalising an acquisition contract for the two aircraft, along with comprehensive support services. This support package encompasses a complete training solution for pilots, loadmasters, and technicians, as well as spare parts provisioning and a robust entry-into-operation plan featuring a dedicated presence of Embraer personnel in the country during the initial phase. The Czech Republic’s active involvement in the development and production of the C-390 Millennium underscores its commitment to fostering collaboration with local industries.

SOUTH KOREA’S DEFENSE ACQUISITION PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION (DAPA)

South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) also selected Embraer’s C-390 Millennium as the winner of the Large Transport Aircraft (LTA) II public tender, marking a significant milestone in the aircraft’s journey into Asia. The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) will benefit from this cutting-edge military transport aircraft, marking South Korea as the C-390 Millennium’s first customer in the region.

Under the signed contract, Embraer will deliver a customised fleet of C-390 Millennium aircraft tailored to meet the specific requirements of the ROKAF. Additionally, the contract includes a comprehensive range of services and support, encompassing training, ground support equipment, and spare parts. Embraer will facilitate a comprehensive consortium and offset package, involving the production of a substantial portion of C-390 Millennium parts by local Korean companies. Furthermore, the agreement entails the development of a local Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) provider, enhancing South Korea’s aerospace capabilities.

SAUDI ARABIAN MILITARY INDUSTRIES (SAMI)

In a significant development for the aerospace industry, SAMI (Saudi Arabian Military Industries) and Embraer joined forces by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in November 2023. The partnership between SAMI and Embraer is poised to expand their operational presence within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with a specific emphasis on leveraging the advanced capabilities of the C-390 Millennium aircraft. SAMI and Embraer will explore the creation of a Regional MRO Hub and a final assembly line for the Embraer C-390, along with the integration of mission systems, all to be based in Saudi Arabia.

By expanding their business scope and capabilities, SAMI underscored its dedication to advancing the aerospace industry in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. This initiative is integral to SAMI’s broader efforts to support the Kingdom’s goal of localising 50 per cent of defence spending by 2030, contributing significantly to enhancing self-sufficiency in the defence sector.

INDIAN AIR FORCE (IAF)

Earlier this year, Embraer Defense & Security and the Mahindra Group inked a MoU aimed at jointly acquiring the C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) medium transport aircraft (MTA) procurement project. The collaboration between Embraer and Mahindra signifies a concerted effort to harness the unmatched mobility, high productivity, and operational flexibility of the C-390 Millennium, all at a low operating cost, making it an ideal choice for a myriad of missions.

Leveraging Embraer’s expertise and Mahindra’s local knowledge, they will collaborate with the IAF and the indigenous aerospace industry to devise an industrialisation plan tailored to India’s unique requirements. Embraer is actively pursuing avenues for technology transfer in India, engaging with both private enterprises and the IAF to customise their offerings. With the IAF’s demand for MTA, Embraer is keen on establishing an assembly line for the C-390 Millennium within India. The long-term vision includes forging strategic alliances and establishing assembly lines and MRO facilities, solidifying India’s position as a regional hub for the C-390 aircraft.

FUTURE EXPORT POSSIBILITIES

Embraer is confident that the C-390 will be a successful export aircraft and is already in talks with more countries for export of the aircraft. The aircraft offers a number of advantages over its competitors, including:

• Lower operating costs
• Greater payload capacity
• Longer range
• More advanced avionics

Also, Embraer is committed to providing excellent customer support. The company has a network of service centres located around the world. The C-390 is a versatile and capable aircraft that is well-suited for a variety of military missions. The aircraft is also relatively affordable, which makes it a good option for countries with limited budgets. The Embraer C-390 Millennium’s success in international markets can be attributed to its modern design, versatility, and cost-effectiveness, making it an attractive option for air forces and other government agencies around the world seeking a reliable and high-performance military transport aircraft. The future of the Embraer C-390 looks bright, and the aircraft is well-positioned to compete in the global military transport market.