Embraer’s C-390 Millennium and Saab’s Gripen E complete air-to-air refuelling test campaign
The Gripen E and KC-390 pictured at Embraer’s facilities in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo. (Photo: Embraer)
Embraer and Saab have successfully completed the flight test campaign for in-flight refuelling of the Gripen E aircraft with the KC-390/C-390 Millennium.
The campaign was coordinated between the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), Saab and Embraer, with a range of flight configurations, speeds and altitudes tested.
According to Embraer, the in-flight tests held two objectives: qualifying the Gripen E as a receiver for in-flight refuelling and verifying compatibility between both aircraft under day and night conditions.
Mikael Olsson, head of flight testing at Saab, said: “The verification of in-flight refuelling is a very significant technical milestone for our business, as
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
Oshkosh and Grid Aero tie-up tests new model for scaling military UAS production
By combining established manufacturing capacity with startup aircraft design, the partnership could offer an alternative approach to scaling military uncrewed aircraft production.
-
European funding and NATO interoperability could shape Polish helicopter plans
Poland is seeking to update its transport helicopters as part of a wider military aviation modernisation programme, with EU funding requirements and NATO interoperability key considerations.
-
Poland air focus: $8.27 billion UAV market highlights value of long-term supplier relationships
Poland’s growing investment in UAVs highlights how recurring procurement contracts and continuous technological development can provide suppliers with sustained opportunities beyond initial acquisitions.
-
October crewed air review: Israel’s Apache deal bets on crewed aviation in an uncrewed age
Israel’s $1 billion Apache helicopter order highlights the continued demand for crewed attack aviation, while growing integration with uncrewed systems could shape future modernisation and procurement decisions.