Why Embraer’s C-390 Millennium’s star is on the rise
Embraer's C-390 aircraft has had interest from various countries including South Africa. (Photo: Author)
Embraer’s medium airlift transport aircraft has enjoyed a recent surge in sales momentum, with six customers confirming orders for an estimated 19 aircraft in 2024, with some slated for delivery in 2025.
Previously designated as the KC-390, the C-390 Millennium named the Brazilian Air Force as the launch customer in 2014, with it first entering service in 2019. Since then, Embraer has had 10 customers sign for the aircraft, with plenty of other interest reportedly in the pipeline.
Compared against other transport aircraft options, it is the newest entrant into the market, competing against the likes of Lockheed Martin’s C-130H
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
-
Bundeswehr launches loitering munition spending spree with $2.16 billion unassigned
After months of delays, Rheinmetall has inked a €300 million deal with Germany for its FV-014 drone this week as part of a wider framework contract worth €2.4 billion for loitering munition procurement. Shephard looks at how the as-yet-unawarded funds could be spent.
-
FY2027 budget request highlights shift in USAF’s future aerial refuelling priorities
The USAF’s Next-Generation Aerial Refuelling Programme is coming under scrutiny in the wake of the Pentagon’s FY2027 budget request, signalling a change in how the force could prioritise the modernisation of its tanker fleet.
-
Industry makes strides on CCA programme as USAF makes nearly $1 billion funding request
Anduril’s YFQ-44A has successfully undergone USAF experimental testing for Increment 1, while an engine has officially been selected for Northrop Grumman’s YFQ-48A – a potential candidate for Increment 2 of the air force’s CCA programme.
-
Australia’s revised defence investment plan: what it means for air warfare
The Australian government’s 2026 National Defence Strategy has unveiled a major spending uplift planned for the Royal Australian Air Force, focused on upgrading its air combat and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, as well as upping investment in uncrewed aerial systems.
-
What does the FY2027 US budget signal for the country’s future airpower plans?
The record-breaking defence budget request focuses on bolstering some core next-generation aircraft programmes across each domain, although questions remain on the US's commitment to some key defence programmes.