Embraer makes progress with Portuguese KC-390 test campaign
A Portuguese Air Force KC-390 aircraft undergoes flight testing. (Photo: Embraer)
Embraer continues to carry out flight test activities in the Portuguese Air Force KC-390 programme in support of key requirements outlined by Lisbon.
The requirements are certified by Brazilian authorities, including the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) and the Institute for Industrial Development and Coordination (IFI), said Embraer in a 1 September statement.
‘This phase precedes the aircraft's departure to Portugal, where NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) standard equipment will be integrated and certified by the National Aeronautical Authority (AAN) of Portugal and with the involvement of OGMA, a subsidiary of Embraer in Portugal,’ added the manufacturer.
Portugal has ordered five KC-390 tanker aircraft with initial deliveries set to begin in 2023. The new fleet is expected to undertake humanitarian support, medical evacuation, SAR and wildfire fighting missions.
‘Portugal is the largest international partner of the KC-390 programme, and its participation in the development and production of the aircraft is recognized for having a positive economic impact on the generation of jobs, new investments, increased exports and technological advances,’ noted Embraer.
Figures from Shephard Defence Insight indicate that Brazil has so far received four KC-390 aircraft from a total of 22 on order, while Hungary awaits a first delivery of two platforms.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Defence Notes
-
Europe turns to industrial and procurement co-operation with Ukraine as supplies continue
Equipment has continued to flow into Ukraine from the European Union (EU), NATO and western countries as the war against Russia continues but other types of support with longer-term prospects are appearing.
-
UK releases security strategy and plans for future defence spending boost
The UK’s National Security Strategy brings together the recently released Strategic Defence Review (SDR), Strategic Security Review, AUKUS Review and Industrial and Trade Strategies. At the same time, the UK made a commitment to reach defence spending of 5% of GDP by 2035 and Germany committed to 3.5% by 2029.
-
Pentagon’s FY26 defence budget proposal is $130 billion more than US Congress plans to provide
The House Committee on Appropriations approved a FY2026 bill reducing investments in main defence programmes.
-
What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow
Holographic and 3D technologies have been lauded by some for their ability to provide technical and operational advantages for military training and planning. But is the hype truly justified?
-
Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme
Shephard talked to multiple experts about the most pressing concerns and considerations regarding the air defence system advocated by President Trump.
-
Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans
While industry reception to the SDR has been positive, questions still remain from analyst and trade associations about what this could mean for future investment and the future UK Defence Industrial Strategy.