Embraer C-390 Millennium

{{Short description|Brazilian military transport aircraft/tanker}} {{Use dmy dates|date=June 2022}}  {{Infobox aircraft | name = C-390 Millennium | image = Embraer KC-390, PT-ZNJ - Desfile Cívico 2018 (cropped).jpg | type = Military transport, aerial refuelling aircraft | image_caption = A KC-390 flying under Brazilian Air Force colors | national_origin = Brazil | manufacturer = Embraer | designer = | first_flight = 3 February 2015<ref name= "parsons maiden">{{cite news |last1= Parsons |first1= Dan |title= Embraer KC-390 takes maiden flight |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/embraer-kc-390-takes-maiden-flight-408635/ |access-date= 25 May 2016 |work= Flightglobal |date= 3 February 2015 |location= Washington, DC}}</ref> | introduction = 2019<ref>{{cite news |title= Embraer entrega primeiro avião multimissão KC-390 à Força Aérea Brasileira |url= https://www.aereo.jor.br/2019/09/04/embraer-entrega-primeiro-aviao-multimissao-kc-390-a-forca-aerea-brasileira |website= Poder Aéreo |date= 4 September 2019 |language= pt}}</ref> | retired = | status = In service | primary_user = Brazilian Air Force | more_users = Portuguese Air Force <br />Hungarian Air Force | produced = 2014–present | number_built = 16 (including 3 prototypes){{citation needed|date=November 2024}} | developed_from = | variants = }}

The '''Embraer C-390 Millennium''' is a medium-size, twin-engine, jet-powered military transport aircraft designed and produced by Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. It is the heaviest aircraft the company has built to date.<ref name= "Embraer initial">{{cite press release |title= FAB and Embraer Announce Plan for KC 390 Initial Acquisition |url= http://www.embraer.com/en-US/ImprensaEventos/Press-releases/noticias/Pages/FAB-E-EMBRAER-ANUNCIAM-PREVIS%C3%83O-INICIAL-DE-AQUISI%C3%87%C3%83O-DO-KC-390.aspx |location= São José dos Campos |publisher= Embraer |date= 21 July 2010 |access-date= 25 May 2016 |archive-date= 14 November 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221114175422/https://www.embraer.com/en-US/ImprensaEventos/Press-releases/noticias/Pages/FAB-E-EMBRAER-ANUNCIAM-PREVIS%C3%83O-INICIAL-DE-AQUISI%C3%87%C3%83O-DO-KC-390.aspx |url-status= dead }}</ref><ref name="Inside_KC-390">{{cite web |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&newspaperUserId=27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7&plckPostId=Blog%3A27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3Aa740522f-7aae-40d7-a7cd-a643073898a8&plc |title= Inside Embraer's KC-390 Tanker/Transport |date= 25 February 2011 |work= Aviation Week |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121008205859/http://www.aviationweek.com/Blogs.aspx?plckBlogId=Blog%3A27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7&plckController=Blog&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&newspaperUserId=27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7&plckPostId=Blog%3A27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3Aa740522f-7aae-40d7-a7cd-a643073898a8&plc |archive-date= 8 October 2012}}</ref>

Work on the project began at Embraer during the mid-2000s, with early efforts centred around a conceptual derivative of the E190 jetliner of a similar size to the Lockheed C-130 Hercules. In May 2008, the Brazilian government invested R$800 million (US$440M) in the project's development. In April 2009, Embraer received a $1.5 billion contract from the Brazilian Air Force for two prototypes. The aircraft was initially designated C-390 before changing to KC-390 in early 2011.<ref name="Inside_KC-390"/> At the 2011 Paris Air Show, Embraer announced plans to launch a stretched version of the aircraft as a civilian freighter. Partnerships were promptly formed with various other aerospace companies, including FAdeA, ENAER, OGMA, and Boeing. Major subcontractors in the aircraft's manufacturing include Aero Vodochody, BAE Systems, and Rockwell Collins.

On 3{{nbsp}}February 2015, the first of two prototypes performed its maiden flight. On 4{{nbsp}}September 2019, the first production aircraft was delivered to the Brazilian Air Force.<ref name="Avweb">{{cite web |url= https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/military-aviation/embraer-delivers-first-kc-390/ |title= Embraer Delivers First KC-390 |access-date= 6 September 2019 |last= O'Connor |first= Kate |work= Avweb |date= 5 September 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190906210446/https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/military-aviation/embraer-delivers-first-kc-390/ |archive-date= 6 September 2019}}</ref> In November 2019, during the Dubai Airshow, Embraer announced the aircraft's new name for the global market, C-390 ''Millennium''.<ref>{{cite news |title= Embraer divulga nome e designação de seu avião de transporte multimissão: C-390 Millennium |url= https://embraer.com/br/pt/noticias?slug=1206666-embraer-divulga-nome-e-designacao-de-seu-aviao-de-transporte-multimissao-c-390-millennium |publisher= Embraer |date= 18 November 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title= Boeing-Embraer joint venture: KC-390 becomes C-390 Millennium |url= https://www.aerotime.aero/clement.charpentreau/24208-boeing-embraer-joint-venture-kc-390-becomes-c-390-millenium |website= Aerotime Hub |date= 18 November 2019}}</ref> Several export customers for the C-390 have been secured, including the Portuguese Air Force, Hungarian Air Force, the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force, the Austrian Air Force, and the Swedish Air Force.

Utilizing turbofan jet engines, the C-390 can be configured to perform various conventional operations such as troop, VIP and cargo transportation, and more specialised logistical operations such as aerial refuelling as a tanker. It can carry payloads of up to {{cvt|26|t|lb}}—such as two fully-tracked M113 armored personnel carriers, one Boxer armoured vehicle, a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter, 74 litters with life-support equipment, up to 80 soldiers or 66 paratroopers with full gear—and loads of up to {{cvt|42,000|lb|t}} can be air dropped. Each aircraft costs around €80 million as of 2024.<ref>{{Cite web|first=Anna|last=Mogilevskaia|url=https://spravy.pravda.sk/domace/clanok/733310-kalinak-bude-v-brazilii-rokovat-o-stamilionovom-nakupe-pre-zlavu-na-lietadla-ponukne-slovenske-hufnice/|title=Kaliňák bude v Brazílii rokovať o stámiliónovom nákupe. Pre zľavu na lietadlá ponúkne slovenské húfnice|trans-title=Kaliňák will negotiate a hundred million purchase in Brazil. He will offer Slovak howitzers in exchange for a discount on the aircraft|website=Pravda|language=sk|date=7 December 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Transport Aircraft |url=https://nations-militaryequipmentlist.weebly.com/transport-aircraft.html |access-date=2025-05-10 |website=Nations: Dawn of an Era |language=en}}</ref>

==Development== ===Studies=== In the early 2000s, the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer became interested in developing its own medium-sized transport aircraft. Its initial design study was based around a high-wing derivative of its existing E190 jetliner.<ref name=AvWeek19apr2019/> Between 2005 and 2007, it investigated the pairing of the wing and GE CF34 engine of the mature Embraer 190 (E190) with a cabin that was modified to function as a cargo hold, complete with a rear ramp, closed-loop fly-by-wire system, and synthetic vision.<ref name= "trimble transforms"/>

By 2006, Embraer was studying a military tactical transport design of a similar size to the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, to be powered by 17,000–22,000 lbf (75.6–98 kN) jet engines, such as the Pratt & Whitney PW6000 and Rolls-Royce BR715.<ref>{{cite news |last1= Norris |first1= Guy |title= Embraer studies C-130-sized tactical airlifter |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/embraer-studies-c-130-sized-tactical-airlifter-210524/ |access-date= 25 May 2016 |work= Flightglobal |date= 13 November 2006 |location= Los Angeles}}</ref> In April 2007, Embraer publicly stated that it was studying a medium-size airlifter. Referred to by the company designation ''C-390'', this transport aircraft was said to incorporate many of the technological solutions present on the Embraer E-Jet series and feature a rear ramp for the loading and unloading of a wide range of cargo.<ref>{{cite news |last1= Warwick |first1= Graham |title= Embraer reveals details of C-390 military airlifter |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-embraer-reveals-details-of-c-390-military-a-213344/ |access-date= 11 September 2009 |work= Flightglobal |date= 19 April 2007}}</ref>

In March 2008, the Brazilian government planned to invest about R$60 million (equivalent to {{US$|33 million|link=yes}}) in the aircraft's initial development. Simultaneously, the Brazilian Air Force was in the process of finalizing an initial purchase contract for between 22 and 30 aircraft, while Embraer was negotiating with possible partners on the programme.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://defesabrasil.com/site/index.php/Noticias/Defesa/Governo-investira-no-cargueiro-C-390-da-Embraer.html |title= Governo investirá no cargueiro C-390 da Embraer |trans-title= Government will invest in Embraer's C-390 cargo aircraft |language= pt |newspaper= Defesa Brasil |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090312040503/http://defesabrasil.com/site/index.php/Noticias/Defesa/Governo-investira-no-cargueiro-C-390-da-Embraer.html |archive-date= 12 March 2009}}</ref> Two months later, the Brazilian Congress released R$800 million (US$440M) to be invested in the project and fund the aircraft's development. Around this time, the media claimed that the aircraft would be operated by the Brazilian Air Force and the Army and Navy, and that there were unconfirmed sales to other government agencies in the works.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.alide.com.br/noticias/embraer04/ |title= Câmara aprova verba de R$800 milhões para cargueiro militar |trans-title= Chamber approves R$800 million budget for military cargo aircraft |language= pt |newspaper= Base Militar |date= 7 November 2007 |access-date= 4 June 2012}}</ref>

===Program launch=== [[File:Embraer KC390 V2500 nacelle.jpg|thumb|The IAE V2500 turbofan was selected to power the C-390.]]

On 14 April 2009, Embraer was awarded with a $1.5 billion contract to develop and build two prototypes.<ref name=Estadao1>{{cite web |trans-title= Defence saves cargo aircraft plan from cuts |url= http://www.estadao.com.br/noticias/impresso,defesa-salva-de-cortes-plano-de-aviao-cargueiro,761590,0.htm |title= Defesa salva de cortes plano de avião cargueiro |language= pt |newspaper= Estadão |date= 21 August 2011 |access-date= 29 May 2012 |publisher= O Estado de S Paulo |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141026204553/http://brasil.estadao.com.br/noticias/geral%2Cdefesa-salva-de-cortes-plano-de-aviao-cargueiro-imp-%2C761590 |archive-date= 26 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1= Trimble |first1= Stephen |title= Brazilian Air Force signs deal launching Embraer KC-390 tanker-transport |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/brazilian-air-force-signs-deal-launching-embraer-kc-325113/ |access-date= 25 May 2016 |work= Flightglobal|date= 14 April 2009 |location= Washington DC}}</ref> At the programme launch, the design was all-new in terms of its fuselage, wing, flight deck, and engine selection. The E-190's wing were dispensed with, partly due to its limited surface area. It was also stated that the aircraft would be the operational successor to the Brazilian Air Force's C-130 fleet. According to Embraer, the selected jet engine is sufficiently resilient to dust ingestion, whereas propeller tips close to the ground are susceptible to damage. Embraer also chose the IAE V2500 engine for its efficiency under normal conditions, rather than prioritising its performance under unusual conditions, such as on the Antonov An-32.<ref name="trimble transforms">{{cite news |last1= Trimble |first1= Stephen |title= Redesign transforms KC-390 into all-new market threat |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/farnborough-redesign-transforms-kc-390-into-all-new-market-threat-400462/ |access-date= 16 August 2015 |work= Flightglobal |date= 8 July 2014 |url-access= registration}}</ref>

In March 2010, Embraer drew up a development schedule, upon which the first prototype aircraft was scheduled to be delivered in late 2014.<ref>{{cite news |last1= Trimble |first1= Stephen |title= Embraer reveals KC-390 schedule, design changes |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/embraer-reveals-kc-390-schedule-design-changes-341893/ |access-date= 14 May 2010 |work= Flightglobal |date= 13 May 2010 |location= Washington DC}}</ref> In July 2010, at the Farnborough Airshow, the Brazilian Air Force announced its intent to order 28 C-390s, while Embraer announced an increase in the aircraft's cargo capacity to {{cvt|21|t|lb}}.<ref name= "Embraer initial"/><ref>{{cite news |last1= Wall |first1= Robert |title= KC-390 advances, F-X2 doesn't |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/Blogs.aspx?plckController=Blog&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&newspaperUserId=af81e61b-7188-4a72-8f39-d3869b7980c2&plckPostId=Blog:af81e61b-7188-4a72-8f39-d3869b7980c2Post:fb85660f-c92b-4f3e-9b7b-65bcf54c82cb&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest |access-date= 26 May 2016 |work= Aviation Week |date= 21 July 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120929093734/http://www.aviationweek.com/Blogs.aspx?plckController=Blog&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&newspaperUserId=af81e61b-7188-4a72-8f39-d3869b7980c2&plckPostId=Blog%3Aaf81e61b-7188-4a72-8f39-d3869b7980c2Post%3Afb85660f-c92b-4f3e-9b7b-65bcf54c82cb&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest |archive-date= 29 September 2012}}</ref> At the 2011 Paris Air Show, Embraer announced plans to launch a stretched version of the C-390 focused on the civil market for freighters sometime around 2018. It estimated that the company would receive 200–250 orders over a 10-year period. To increase internal capacity, two plugs will be added fore and aft of the centre fuselage section, which would also provide a new side cargo door.<ref>{{cite news |last1= Trimble |first1= Stephen |title= Embraer reveals plan for KC-390 civil stretch |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/paris-embraer-reveals-plan-for-kc-390-civil-stretch-358531/ |access-date= 12 March 2012 |work= Flightglobal |date= 21 June 2011 |location= Paris}}</ref>

In April 2011, Embraer estimated that 695 military transport aircraft worldwide would need to be replaced in the following decade.<ref>{{cite news |title= Argentina joins manufacturing of Brazil's KC 390 jet powered military transport |url= http://en.mercopress.com/2011/04/19/argentina-joins-manufacturing-of-brazil-s-kc-390-jet-powered-military-transport |work= MercoPress |date= 19 April 2011}}</ref>

===Partnerships=== In August 2010, the defence ministers of Chile and Brazil signed an agreement for the Chilean aircraft company ENAER to join the C-390 industry team.<ref>{{cite press release |title= Embraer Reveals Discussions on a Partnership with Chilean Aeronautics Industry for the KC-390 |url= http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/release/117539/chile-to-join-embraer%C3%A2%E2%82%AC%E2%84%A2s-kc_390-airlifter-program.html |publisher= Embraer |date= 24 August 2010 |access-date= 20 April 2019 |archive-date= 20 April 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190420121054/http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/release/117539/chile-to-join-embraer%25C3%25A2%25E2%2582%25AC%25E2%2584%25A2s-kc_390-airlifter-program.html |url-status= dead}}</ref> That same month, Argentine Defence Minister Nilda Garré announced that Argentina through FAdeA, would participate in the construction programme.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.mindef.gov.ar/info.asp?Id=1577 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110718033158/http://www.mindef.gov.ar/info.asp?Id=1577 |archive-date= 18 July 2011 |title= Garré brindó una charla a suboficiales de base naval de Mar del Plata |language= es |date= 10 August 2010 |publisher= República Argentina – Ministerio de Defensa}}</ref> In September 2010, Colombia signed an agreement to participate in the C-390 programme.<ref name="croft formalises">{{cite news |last1= Croft |first1= John |title= Colombia formalises Embraer KC-390 interest |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/colombia-formalises-embraer-kc-390-interest-346892/ |work= Flightglobal |date= 1 September 2010}}</ref> On 10 September 2010, the defense minister of Portugal signed an intentions letter to join the programme.<ref>{{cite press release |url= http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/release/117966/portugal-signs-mou-to-join-embraer-kc_390-program.html |title= Defence Ministers of Portugal and Brazil Sign Memorandum of Understanding on the KC-390 |publisher= defense-aerospace.com |date= 10 September 2010 |access-date= 12 September 2010 |archive-date= 11 September 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100911193107/http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/release/117966/portugal-signs-mou-to-join-embraer-kc_390-program.html |url-status= dead}}</ref> In December 2011, Brazil and Portugal agreed to a defense partnership with Empresa de Engenharia Aeronáutica (EEA) for developing the engineering data for the KC-390's components, which will be manufactured by Embraer's Portuguese subsidiary OGMA.<ref>{{cite press release |title= Brazil and Portugal Sign Defense Partnership for KC-390 Program |url= http://www.embraer.com/en-US/ImprensaEventos/Press-releases/noticias/Pages/BRASIL-E-PORTUGAL-FIRMAM-PARCERIA-NO-SETOR-DE-DEFESA-PARA-O-PROGRAMA-KC390.aspx |publisher= Embraer |date= 14 December 2011 |access-date= 4 May 2012 |archive-date= 17 January 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120117073226/http://www.embraer.com/en-US/ImprensaEventos/Press-releases/noticias/Pages/BRASIL-E-PORTUGAL-FIRMAM-PARCERIA-NO-SETOR-DE-DEFESA-PARA-O-PROGRAMA-KC390.aspx |url-status= dead }}</ref>

In April 2012, the American aerospace giant Boeing and Embraer signed a cooperation agreement.<ref>{{cite press release |title= Boeing and Embraer Sign Agreement for Broad Business Cooperation to Benefit Customers and Support Industry Growth |url= http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2012-04-09-Boeing-and-Embraer-Sign-Agreement-for-Broad-Business-Cooperation-to-Benefit-Customers-and-Support-Industry-Growth |location= Washington DC |publisher= Boeing |date= 9 April 2012}}</ref> Two months later, an agreement was signed by the two companies to collaborate on the development of the C-390, and possibly extending to sales as well.<ref>{{cite press release |title= Boeing and Embraer Sign Agreement to Collaborate on KC-390 Program |url= http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2012-06-26-Boeing-and-Embraer-Sign-Agreement-to-Collaborate-on-KC-390-Program |location= São Paulo |publisher= Boeing |date= 26 June 2012}}</ref> In June 2013, Boeing agreed to market the C-390 in the US, UK, and Middle East, building on the June 2012 MoU.<ref>{{cite news |title= Embraer's Multinational KC-390 Tactical Air Transport Program |url= https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/embraer-launches-kc-390-tactical-air-transport-program-05380/ |work= Defense Industry Daily |date= 22 October 2014 |url-access= subscription}}</ref> In November 2019, it was announced that Boeing and Embraer were to form a new joint venture company to promote and develop new markets for the ''C-390 Millennium''. This new company, Boeing Embraer{{dash}}Defense, was to have its ownership divided between a 51% stake held by Embraer and 49% by Boeing. It was to begin operations following the granting of regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of closing conditions.<ref>{{cite press release |url= https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2019-11-18-Boeing-Embraer-Defense-Joint-Venture-to-Develop-New-Markets-for-the-C-390-Millennium |title= Boeing Embraer – Defense Joint Venture to Develop New Markets for the C-390 Millennium |date= 18 November 2019 |publisher= Boeing}}</ref> However, in April 2020, Boeing terminated the planned joint ventures with Embraer.<ref>{{Cite press release |title= Boeing Terminates Agreement to Establish Joint Ventures with Embraer |date= 25 April 2020 |publisher= Boeing |url= https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2020-04-25-Boeing-Terminates-Agreement-to-Establish-Joint-Ventures-with-Embraer}}</ref>

Major subcontractors include Aero Vodochody for the rear fuselage section,<ref>{{cite news |last1= Trimble |first1= Stephen |title= Embraer signs two new suppliers for KC-390 |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/laad11-embraer-signs-two-new-suppliers-for-kc-390-355559/ |work= Flightglobal |date= 14 April 2011 |location= Rio de Janeiro}}</ref> BAE Systems for the fly-by-wire primary flight control system,<ref>{{cite press release |url= https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-to-provide-flight-controls-for-embraer-rsquo-s-kc-390-aircraft |title= BAE Systems selected for Embraer KC-390 primary flight control system |date= 27 July 2011 |publisher= BAE Systems}}</ref> ELEB for the landing gear,<ref>{{cite press release |url= http://www.airframer.com/news_story.html?release=12317 |title= KC-390 cargo jet will have landing gear by ELEB |publisher= Embraer |date= 8 April 2011}}</ref> OGMA, involved in the design and manufacturing of the sponsons, including the central fuselage,<ref>{{cite news |title= KC-390. O maior projecto aeronáutico português |url= https://www.jornaldenegocios.pt/empresas/industria/detalhe/kc_390_maior_projecto_aeronautico_portugues_e_apresentado_hoje |first1=Nuno |last1=Carregueiro |work= Jornal de Notícias |date= 4 July 2016 |location= Lisbon |language=pt |trans-title=KC-390. The largest Portuguese aeronautical project}}</ref> and development of the landing gear, rear wing elevators, fuselage and part of the rudder with CEiiA,<ref>{{cite news |title= KC390: O maior projecto aeronáutico português |url= https://eurodefense.pt/kc-390-o-maior-projecto-aeronautico-portugues-apresentado-na-ogma/ |work= EuroDefense Portugal |date= 4 July 2016 |location= Lisbon|language=pt |trans-title=KC 390: The largest Portuguese aeronautical project}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title= OGMA produziu primeiro painel do KC-390 para entregar à Força Aérea |url= https://www.jornaldenegocios.pt/empresas/transportes/detalhe/ogma-produziu-primeiro-painel-do-kc-390-para-entregar-a-forca-aerea |work= Jornal de Notícias |date= 23 January 2020 |location= Lisbon}}</ref> with Rockwell Collins for the avionics, cargo handling and aerial delivery system.<ref>{{cite press release |date= 4 May 2011 |title= Embraer selects Rockwell Collins advanced avionics system for Brazilian Air Force KC-390 fleet |publisher= Rockwell Collins |url= https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20110504006997/en/Embraer-Selects-Rockwell-Collins-Advanced-Avionics-System}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |title= Embraer selects Rockwell Collins to provide KC-390 Cargo Handling and Aerial Delivery Control System |url= http://www.airframer.com/news_story.html?release=31792 |location= São José dos Campos |publisher= Rockwell Collins |date= 11 November 2015}}</ref> Fábrica Argentina de Aviones supplies the tail cone, cargo door and landing gear doors.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.telam.com.ar/notas/201410/82390-rossi-san-pablo-embraer.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220626074345/https://www.telam.com.ar/notas/201410/82390-rossi-san-pablo-embraer.html |archive-date= 26 June 2022 |title= Para Rossi, es un “hito histórico” la asociación de Argentina con Embraer en la frabricación de un nuevo avión militar |language= es |date= 21 October 2014 |publisher= telam.com.ar}}</ref> International Aero Engines (IAE) supplies the V2500-E5 turbofans. Its use on the C-390 was its first military application.<ref>{{cite news |last1= Trimble |first1= Stephen |title= IAE steps into military market with KC-390 win |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/iae-steps-into-military-market-with-kc-390-win-359937/ |work= Flightglobal |date= 26 July 2011 |location= Washington DC}}</ref>

On 25 April 2023, in a joint statement by Brazil and Portugal, it was announced that the KC-390 could be built or assembled in Portugal by OGMA for European customers along with the new A-29N.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br/politica/noticia/2023-04/brasil-e-portugal-firmam-acordo-para-fabricar-aviao-super-tucano|title= Brasil e Portugal firmam acordo para fabricar avião Super Tucano |date= 24 April 2023|website= Agência Brasil |access-date= 30 April 2023}}</ref>

===Flight testing=== thumb|C-390 roll-out on 21 October 2014

It was decided to construct a pair of prototypes to participate in the test programme. On 21 October 2014, the first prototype (PT-ZNF) rolled out from the Embraer subsidiary plant, Embraer Defense and Security, at Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo.<ref>{{cite news |last1= Bianconi |first1= César |last2= Haynes |first2= Brad |url= http://br.reuters.com/article/topNews/idBRKCN0IA22420141021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141024192116/http://br.reuters.com/article/topNews/idBRKCN0IA22420141021 |archive-date= 24 October 2014 |title= Embraer apresenta protótipo de cargueiro KC-390 e espera acelerar vendas |date= 21 October 2014 |work= Reuters |access-date= 21 October 2014 |language= pt}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= EMBRAER Rolls Out KC-390 Military Airlift |url= http://www.defesanet.com.br/kc390/noticia/17180/Embraer-rolls-out-KC-390-military-airlift-/ |website=DefesaNet |date= 21 October 2014 |access-date= 21 October 2014}}</ref> On 3{{nbsp}}February 2015, the first prototype performed its maiden flight.<ref name= "parsons maiden"/>

In July 2015, the company announced a two-year delay in the flight test program, citing the devaluation of the Brazilian currency and government spending cuts. However, a second test flight took place at Gavião Peixoto on 26 October 2015.<ref>{{cite news |last1= Carey |first1= Bill |title= Embraer's KC-390 Returns to Flight Test |url= http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2015-11-08/embraers-kc-390-returns-flight-test |access-date= 22 March 2016 |publisher= AINonline |date= 8 November 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1= Trimble |first1= Stephen |title= Embraer announces two-year delay for KC-390 |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/embraer-announces-two-year-delay-for-kc-390-415195/ |work= Flightglobal|date= 30 July 2015}}</ref> By February 2016, the first prototype had logged more than 100 hours of flight.<ref>{{Cite web |url= http://www.defesanet.com.br/kc390/noticia/21602/KC-390-ja-ultrapassou-a-marca-de-100-horas-de-voo/ |title= KC-390 já ultrapassou a marca de 100 horas de voo |date= 18 February 2016 |publisher= Defesanet |language= pt}}</ref> Following the resumption of flight-testing, the manufacturer expected to certify the C-390 sometime in 2017 and begin deliveries in 2018. The eight months between test flights were used to conduct ground vibration tests to validate aeroelastic models, as well as avionics, mission, landing gear and electric and hydraulic flight control system testing.<ref name="alcock returns"/> Embraer reported good availability for testing, sometimes conducting two flights per day. The aircraft was tested to the limits of speed, Mach number, and altitude, as well as all slats, flaps and landing gear positions.<ref name="alcock returns">{{cite news |last1= Alcock |first1= Charles |title= Embraer's KC-390 Returns to Flight Test |url= http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2016-02-17/embraers-kc-390-returns-flight-test |publisher= AINonline |date= 17 February 2016 |access-date= 22 March 2016 |archive-date= 21 March 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160321110521/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2016-02-17/embraers-kc-390-returns-flight-test |url-status= dead}}</ref>

In March 2016, the second prototype (PT-ZNJ) was completed. It conducted its first flight in April 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |url= http://www.defesanet.com.br/kc390/noticia/21833/Embraer-conclui-o-segundo-prototipo-do-cargueiro-militar-KC-390/ |title= Embraer conclui o segundo protótipo do cargueiro militar KC-390 |date= 15 March 2016 |publisher= Defesanet |language= pt}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= http://www.kc-390.com/documents/Progress-Report-01-KC-390.pdf |title= KC-390's Flight Test Campaign Progresses |publisher= Embraer Defense & Security |access-date= 14 July 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media |url= http://www.kc-390.com/ |title= KC-390 Flight Campaign Status |year= 2016 |medium= Motion picture |publisher= Embraer Defense & Security}}</ref> By then, Richard Aboulafia's Teal Group estimated the C-390's price to be around $50–55 million, which was $15 million below that of the competing Hercules.<ref name=CNN20jul2017>{{cite news |url= https://money.cnn.com/2017/07/20/news/companies/embraer-kc390-military-transport-lockheed-c130-super-hercules/index.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170720151504/http://money.cnn.com/2017/07/20/news/companies/embraer-kc390-military-transport-lockheed-c130-super-hercules/index.html |url-status= dead |archive-date= 20 July 2017 |title= Brazilian aircraft takes on an American military icon |first= Thom |last= Patterson |work= CNNMoney |date= 20 July 2017}}</ref>

thumb|Refueling certification test On 17 October 2017, the first prototype (PT-ZNF) made an uncommanded descent from 20,000 ft to 3,100 ft at 4,500 ft/min.<ref name=ASN5May2018>{{Cite web |url= https://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=20180505-0 |title= ASN Aircraft accident Embraer KC-390 PT-ZNF Gavião Peixoto-Embraer Unidade Airport, SP |last= Ranter |first= Harro |website= aviation-safety.net}}</ref> In December 2017, as the two prototypes accumulated over 1,500 flight hours and laboratory testing over 40,000 hours, initial operating capability was reached, while full operational capability was expected in 2018.<ref>{{cite news |title= Embraer moves closer to KC-390 delivery with IOC declaration |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/embraer-moves-closer-to-kc-390-delivery-with-ioc-dec-444357/ |first= Stephen |last= Trimble |work= Flightglobal |date= 20 December 2017}}</ref> On 5{{nbsp}}May 2018, the first prototype (PT-ZNF) ran off the runway during a ground test in Gaviao Peixoto, Brazil.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/embraer-reports-kc-390-runway-excursion-in-gaviao-pe-448359/ |title= Embraer reports KC-390 runway excursion in Gaviao Peixoto |date= 5 May 2018 |work= Flightglobal}}</ref><ref name=ASN5May2018/> The first production C-390, which was the third aircraft to be built including the prototypes, made its first flight on 6{{nbsp}}October 2018.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-10-10/first-production-kc-390-takes-air |title= First Production KC-390 Takes to the Air |date= 10 October 2018 |work= AIN online}}</ref>

On 23 October 2018, the C-390 was issued with Brazilian civil type certification. By this point, the aircraft has cumulatively attained 1,900 flight hours during testing, while the first production aircraft was set to be delivered to the Brazilian Air Force in the first half of 2019 and should obtain military certification by the end of 2019.<ref name=Flight24oct2018>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/embraer-kc-390-receives-brazilian-type-certification-452929/ |title= Embraer KC-390 receives Brazilian type certification |date= 24 October 2018 |first= Garrett |last= Reim |work= Flight international}}</ref> The third aircraft (PT-ZNG), originally slated for the first delivery, was instead redirected towards the certification efforts.<ref name=AvWeek19apr2019/>

In February 2021, Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force dispatched a single KC-390 to the US to undergo testing under extreme cold conditions.<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/news/defense-aviation-news/2021/february/6943-brazilian-air-force-and-embraer-test-kc-390-millennium-in-extreme-cold.html |title= Brazilian Air Force and Embraer test KC-390 Millennium in extreme cold |publisher= airrecognition.com |date= February 2021}}</ref>

===Full operational capability=== In the first quarter of 2023, the Brazilian Air Force fleet of C-390 had accumulated more than 8,000 flight hours, having participated in aviation fairs and carried out missions on all continents including Antarctica, where C-390 from the Fat Squadron (1st/1st GT) performed two air resupply missions for the Brazilian Comandante Ferraz Antarctic Station. At the end of March 2023, the aircraft received the Final Type Certificate, reaching full operational capability (FOC).<ref name="aeromagazine.uol.com.br">{{Cite web |url=https://aeromagazine.uol.com.br/artigo/kc-390-realiza-primeira-missao-real-na-antartica.html |title= KC-390 realiza primeira missão real na Antártica |date= 2022-07-01 |website=aeromagazine.uol.com.br}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.aereo.jor.br/2023/04/03/embraer-c-390-millennium-recebe-certificado-de-tipo-final-alcancando-a-capacidade-operacional-completa-foc/ |title= Embraer C-390 Millennium recebe Certificado de Tipo Final, alcançando a Capacidade Operacional Completa (FOC) |date= 2023-04-03 |website=aereo.jor.br}}</ref>

==Design==  The Embraer C-390 Millennium is a mid-sized utility transport aircraft. Its design permits flexible operations. Both the internal and external configuration of the aircraft can be rapidly interchanged to accommodate different mission roles due the modular design adopted since the aircraft concept for all missions systems.<ref>[https://www.smgconferences.com/documentportal/ComplementaryContent/4096.pdf missions systems].</ref> It incorporates modern technology and mission software to aid crews in carrying out operations.<ref name= "AvWeek 30March2022"/> The cockpit has head-up displays for the enhanced vision system with four cameras and Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion commercial avionics.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.rockwellcollins.com/sitecore/content/Data/News/2011_Cal_Yr/GS/FY11GSNR21_KC-390_Pro_Line_Fusion.aspx |title= Embraer selects Rockwell Collins advanced avionics system for Brazilian Air Force KC-390 fleet |publisher= Rockwell Collins |date= 5 May 2011 |access-date= 12 March 2012}}</ref> The C-390 can provide inflight refueling to other aircraft through two wing-mounted probe and drogue pods from Cobham plc. These can deliver fuel at up to {{cvt|400|USgal|L|order=flip}} per minute from a {{cvt|{{#expr:12+23}}|t|lb}} total fuel capacity, between {{cvt|120 and 300|kn|km/h}} and from {{cvt|2,000 to 32,000|ft|m}}.<ref name=AvWeek19apr2019/><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.cobham.com/media/641652/419%20-%20cobham%20selected%20by%20embraer%20defense%20and%20security%20to%20supply%20the%20aerial%20refuelling%20receiver%20probe%20for%20the%20kc%20390%20tanker%20aircraft.pdf |title= Cobham Selected by Embraer Defense and Security to Supply the Aerial Refuelling Receiver Probe for the KC 390 Tanker Aircraft |publisher= Cobham |date= 7 December 2012 |access-date= 12 March 2012 |archive-date= 23 September 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150923205324/http://www.cobham.com/media/641652/419%20-%20cobham%20selected%20by%20embraer%20defense%20and%20security%20to%20supply%20the%20aerial%20refuelling%20receiver%20probe%20for%20the%20kc%20390%20tanker%20aircraft.pdf |url-status= dead}}</ref>

The aircraft is powered by a pair of IAE V2500-E5 turbofan engines, which are mounted forward on the high wing. This wing features an anhedral angle, slats, and High-lift devices able to deflect up to 40°. The landing gear is equipped with low-pressure tires, two {{cvt|85|psi|bar|order=flip}} on the nose and four {{cvt|105|psi|bar|order=flip}} on either side bogies, which facilitate the aircraft's use upon soft, unpaved ground, such as austere airstrips, or damaged runways.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.embraer.com/en-US/ImprensaEventos/Press-releases/noticias/Pages/EMBRAER-DEFESA-E-SEGURAN%C3%87A-SELECIONA-MESSIER-BUGATTI-DOWTY-PARA-AERONAVE-DE-TRANSPORTE-MILITAR-KC-390.aspx |title= Embraer Defense and Security Selects Messier-Bugatti-Dowty for KC-390 Military Transport Jet |publisher= Embraer |date= 23 June 2011 |access-date= 30 May 2012 |archive-date= 1 October 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20201001155255/http://www.embraer.com/en-US/ImprensaEventos/Press-releases/noticias/Pages/EMBRAER-DEFESA-E-SEGURAN%C3%87A-SELECIONA-MESSIER-BUGATTI-DOWTY-PARA-AERONAVE-DE-TRANSPORTE-MILITAR-KC-390.aspx |url-status= dead }}</ref> The C-390 has a cruising speed of Mach 0.8 which, according to Embraer, enables payloads to be transported faster than any other airplane in the medium airlift market.<ref name= "AvWeek 30March2022"/> It can attain a controlled descend rate of {{cvt|9,000|ft/min}} at its {{cvt|300|kn|km/h}} maximum IAS through a combination of extended slats, idle thrust, and flight spoilers extended to 40°. When its flaps are fully deployed at 40 degrees, it has a stall speed of {{cvt|{{#expr:109/1.05round0}}|kn|km/h}} IAS.<ref name=AvWeek19apr2019>{{cite news |url= https://aviationweek.com/commercial-aviation/pilot-report-putting-embraer-s-kc-390-through-its-paces |title= Pilot Report: Putting Embraer's KC-390 Through Its Paces |date= 19 April 2019 |first= Tim |last= Wuerfel |work= Aviation Week & Space Technology}}</ref>

thumb|C-390 glass cockpit preparing for flight  The aircraft is equipped with fully fly-by-wire flight controls combined with active sidesticks, which reduces the crew's workload over conventional counterparts and permits load factors up to 3g.<ref name=AvWeek19apr2019/><ref>{{cite web |url= http://ir.goodrich.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=60759&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1692193 |title= Goodrich Selected for Additional Products on Embraer's Defense and Security KC-390 Military Transport Aircraft |publisher= Goodrich |date= 7 May 2012 |access-date= 7 May 2012 |archive-date= 9 July 2012 |archive-url= https://archive.today/20120709182703/http://ir.goodrich.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=60759&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1692193 |url-status= dead}}</ref> An autothrottle system is installed.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.embraer.com/en-US/ImprensaEventos/Press-releases/noticias/Pages/EMBRAER-DEFESA-E-SEGURAN%C3%87A-SELECIONA-ESTERLINE-PARA-O-PROGRAMA-KC-390.aspx |title= Embraer Defense and Security selects Esterline for KC-390 Program |publisher= Embraer |date= 21 June 2011 |access-date= 12 March 2012 |archive-date= 1 October 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20201001162603/http://www.embraer.com/en-US/ImprensaEventos/Press-releases/noticias/Pages/EMBRAER-DEFESA-E-SEGURAN%C3%87A-SELECIONA-ESTERLINE-PARA-O-PROGRAMA-KC-390.aspx |url-status= dead }}</ref> The navigation systems, which were largely supplied by Thales Group, include an Inertial Navigation System (INS), GPS, and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) transponder.<ref>[http://www.thalesgroup.com/Press_Releases/Markets/Defence/2012/Thales_new_generation_Inertial_Navigation_System_and_GPS_selected_by_Embraer_Defense_and_Security_for_the_KC-390/ "Thales new generation Inertial Navigation System and GPS selected by Embraer Defense and Security for the KC-390".] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120524072737/http://www.thalesgroup.com/Press_Releases/Markets/Defence/2012/Thales_new_generation_Inertial_Navigation_System_and_GPS_selected_by_Embraer_Defense_and_Security_for_the_KC-390/ |date=24 May 2012}} ''Thales Group,'' 4 May 2012. Retrieved: 4 May 2012.</ref> It is fitted with SELEX Galileo's Gabbiano tactical radar, capable of GMTI, SAR, ISAR, SART modes amongst others.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.selexgalileo.com/EN/Common/files/SELEX_Galileo/Press_Releases/Q3_2011/PR_Embraer_Gabbiano_DEF.pdf |title= Embraer Defense & Security selects SELEX Galileo to supply Gabbiano radar for the new KC-390 tactical transport programme |publisher= SELEX Galileo |date= 12 September 2011 |access-date= 29 May 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.selexgalileo.com/EN/Common/files/SELEX_Galileo/Products/GABBIANO_FAMILY.pdf |title= Gabbiano Surveillance Radar Family |publisher= Selex Galileo |access-date= 29 May 2012}}</ref> For self-defense purposes, an Elbit Systems-supplied directional infrared countermeasures suite is typically installed.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://ir.elbitsystems.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=61849&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1621583 |archive-url= https://archive.today/20120709234135/http://ir.elbitsystems.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=61849&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1621583 |url-status= dead |archive-date= 9 July 2012 |title= Elbit Systems' Brazilian Subsidiary, AEL, to Provide EMBRAER with Advanced Systems for the KC-390 Program |publisher= Elbit Systems |date= 26 October 2012 |access-date= 12 March 2012}}</ref> An integrated onboard maintenance system actively monitors the health of the overall aircraft and various subsystems at all times.<ref name= "AvWeek 30March2022"/>

The hold of the C-390 has a length of {{cvt|18.5|m}}, width of 3.45 m (11.3 ft), and height of {{cvt|2.95|m}}, and is primarily accessed via a large rear ramp built into the tail. It can carry payloads of up to {{cvt|26|t|lb}}. This allows for the carriage of either two fully-tracked M113 armored personnel carriers, one Boxer or Brazilian VBTP-MR Guarani wheeled armoured vehicle, a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter, 74 litters with life-support equipment, up to 80 soldiers or 66 paratroopers with full gear. Loads of up to {{cvt|42,000|lb|t}} can be air dropped. A cargo handling and aerial delivery system, produced by DRS Defense Solutions, is incorporated.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://news.drs.com/news/cargohandling.htm |title= DRS Defense Solutions to Provide Cargo Handling and Aerial Delivery Systems for Embraer KC-390 Military Transport Aircraft |publisher= DRS Technologies |date= 22 March 2011 |access-date= 2 May 2012 |archive-date= 13 July 2012 |archive-url= https://archive.today/20120713051354/http://news.drs.com/news/cargohandling.htm |url-status= dead}}</ref> Typical amenities present in the hold include a galley, an accessibility-friendly toilet, automatic temperature control, and noise/vibration mitigation measures. Embraer have stated that considerable attention was paid to passenger comfort.<ref name= "AvWeek 30March2022">{{cite web |url= https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/multi-mission-aircraft/c-390-millennium-new-generation-airlifter-todays-world |title= C-390 Millennium. The New Generation Airlifter, For Today's World |work= Aviation Week & Space Technology |date= 30 March 2022}}</ref>

==Variants== * '''C-390''': standard model of the aircraft for transport, SAR and aerial firefighting operations * '''KC-390''': aerial refueling variant, developed for the Brazilian Air Force * '''C-390 IVR''': anti-submarine and maritime patrol variant announced in December 2024, under studies for a joint development between Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force to replace the aging Brazilian Lockheed P-3 Orion fleet<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.edrotacultural.com.br/brasil-quer-nova-versao-do-kc-390/ |title= Brasil quer nova versão do KC-390 |date= 3 December 2024 |website= Revista Asas |language=pt}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.zona-militar.com/2024/12/04/embraer-y-la-fuerza-aerea-brasilena-realizaran-estudios-para-desarrollar-una-nueva-version-isr-de-patrullaje-maritimo-del-c-390-millennium/ |title= Embraer y la Fuerza Aérea Brasileña realizarán estudios para desarrollar una nueva versión ISR de patrullaje marítimo del C-390 Millennium |date= 4 December 2024 |website= zona-militar.com |language=es}}</ref>

==Operational history== ===Brazil=== [[File:Adestramento de Forças Especiais treina militares para salto livre operacional a médias e grandes altitudes (51656587248).jpg|thumb|Brazilian Para-SAR Special Forces in operational free-jump training on a C-390]]

In 2014, the Brazilian government ordered 28 C-390s.<ref>{{Cite web |work = G1 |url= https://g1.globo.com/politica/noticia/2021/11/12/fab-anuncia-compra-menor-de-cargueiros-da-embraer-empresa-diz-que-buscara-medidas-legais.ghtml |title= FAB anuncia compra menor de cargueiros da Embraer; empresa diz que buscará 'medidas legais' |publisher= Globo |date= 12 November 2021}}</ref> There was the stated intention of progressively replacing the Brazilian Air Force's existing cargo aircraft fleet with the type, including its C-130s.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.aerotime.aero/clement.charpentreau/23905-embraer-delivers-first-kc-390-to-the-brazilian-air-force |title= Embraer delivers first KC-390 to the brazilian air force |website= Aerotime |date= 5 September 2019 |access-date= 29 January 2021}}</ref> The first C-390 was delivered to the Brazilian Air Force on 4 September 2019.<ref name="flight4sep2019">{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/brazilian-air-force-receives-first-embraer-kc-390-460668/ |title= Brazilian air force receives first Embraer KC-390 |date= 4 September 2019 |first= Garrett |last= Reim |work= Flightglobal}}</ref> The fleet of C-390s will be operated from Anápolis Air Force Base by the 1st Troop Transportation Group (1º GTT) ''Zeus'' and in Rio de Janeiro by the 1st/1st GT ''Gordo''.<ref name="Anapolis">{{cite web |url= https://www.defesanet.com.br/kc390/noticia/39147/KC-390---FAB-recebe-quarta-aeronave-KC-390-Millennium/ |title= KC-390 – FAB recebe quarta aeronave KC-390 Millennium |date= 20 December 2020 |website= Defesanet |access-date= 13 April 2021}}</ref>

In the first 3.5 years of operation, the C-390 in the FAB totaled more than 8,200 flight hours with 6,000 flights, the technical availability was around 80% and the mission completion rate was 99.5%, according to Embraer data and the FAB.<ref name="edrmagazine.eu">{{cite web|url= https://www.edrmagazine.eu/embraer-strongly-pushes-its-c-390-millenium-on-the-international-market|title= Embraer strongly pushes its C-390 Millenium on the international market |date= 28 April 2023|website= European Defense Review |access-date= 30 April 2023}}</ref>

In January 2021, in the middle of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Brazilian city of Manaus, located in the interior of the Amazon rainforest, was left with an overburdened medical service needing medical supplies and help with transferring patients. A major operation was set up by the Brazilian air force, mobilizing all its available transport aviation. The C-390 played a key role in this operation, carrying out an airlift mission connecting the city of Manaus to the rest of the country, taking hospital supplies and removing hundreds of patients from an overloaded Manaus.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.defesanet.com.br/kc390/noticia/39307/KC-390-transporta-mais-de-8-toneladas-de-equipamentos-para-Manaus/ |title= KC-390 transports more than 8 tons of equipment to Manaus |website= defesanet.com.br |date= 14 January 2021 |access-date= 29 January 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.aeroin.net/kc-390-voa-em-nova-missao-contra-a-crise-da-covid-19-em-manaus/ |title= KC-390 flies on a new mission against the COVID-19 crisis in Manaus |date= 14 January 2021 |website= Aeroin.net}}</ref>

Following the 2020 Beirut explosion, a C-390 and an Embraer 190 VC-2 were sent with around six tons of medicines, food and health equipment to provide emergency care. It was the first international mission of the aircraft in FAB service.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.fab.mil.br/noticias/mostra/36145/AJUDA%20HUMANITÁRIA%20-%20FAB%20presta%20assistência%20humanitária%20à%20República%20Libanesa |title= FAB presta assistência humanitária à República Libanesa |date= 12 August 2020 |website= fab.mil.br}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/c-390-gaining-credibility-in-gulf-says-embraers-schneider/147811.article |title= C-390 gaining credibility in Gulf, says Embraer's Schneider |publisher= flightglobal.com |first= Murdo |last= Morrison |date= 7 March 2022}}</ref>

In February 2021, during Operational Exercise "Culminating", in Louisiana, United States, the KC-390 conducted joint flights with US Air Force C-17 and C-130 airlifters. The combined force launched 4,000 paratroopers in a single night jump.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.fab.mil.br/noticias/mostra/36936/OPERACIONAL%20-%20KC-390%20realiza%20lan%C3%A7amento%20de%20paraquedistas%20em%20treinamento%20com%20C-17%20e%20C-130%20da%20USAF |title= KC-390 realiza lançamento de paraquedistas em treinamento com C-17 e C-130 da USAF |date= 3 February 2021 |website= fab.mil.br}}</ref> In 2021, after the Haiti earthquake, the C-390 was dispatched to Haiti with around eleven tons of medicine and specialized firefighting equipment for search and rescue in collapsed structures, search dogs and doctors.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.fab.mil.br/noticias/mostra/37777/AJUDA%20HUMANITÁRIA%20-%20KC-390%20Millennium%20decola%20com%20ajuda%20humanitária%20para%20o%20Haiti |title= KC-390 Millennium decola com ajuda humanitária para o Haiti |date= 22 August 2021 |publisher = FAB}}</ref>

thumb|Arrival of Brazilians and foreigners from Ukraine during the Operation Repatriation, March 2022 A single C-390 flew to Ushuaia carrying spare parts in support of a FAB C-130 that was on an Antarctic operation. In the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, a KC-390 and a VC-99B Legacy were sent with a mission to rescue Brazilian nationals and other countries. The mission also brought around 12 tons of humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The mission rescued national, Ukrainian, Argentine and Colombian citizens, all of whom were taken to Brazil.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.fab.mil.br/noticias/mostra/38717/REPATRIA%C3%A7%C3%A3O%20-%20Em%20avi%C3%B5es%20da%20FAB,%20brasileiros%20e%20estrangeiros%20vindos%20da%20Ucr%C3%A2nia%20chegam%20ao%20Brasil |title= Em aviões da FAB, brasileiros e estrangeiros vindos da Ucrânia chegam ao Brasil |date= 10 March 2022 |publisher = FAB}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/embraer-sees-heightened-c-390-demand-amid-geopolitical-tensions/148899.article |title= Embraer sees heightened C-390 demand amid geopolitical tensions |work = Flightglobal |first= Jon |last= Hemmerdinger |date= 6 June 2022}}</ref>

In February 2022, the Brazilian government and Embraer agreed to downsize the former's order for C-390s to 22, which was a reduction from the original order for 28 aircraft. This measure, which was taken as a financial austerity measure due to COVID-19, was less severe than early suggestions for as few as 15. At this point, four C-390s were in FAB service.<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/embraer-brazilian-air-force-agree-six-unit-cut-to-c-390-contract/147449.article |title= Embraer, Brazilian air force agree six-unit cut to C-390 contract |work = Flightglobal |first= Craig |last= Hoyle |date= 10 February 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/brazilian-air-force-reduces-kcc-390-buy |title= Brazilian Air Force reduces KC/C-390 buy |work = Jane's |first= Victor |last= Barreira |date= 17 November 2021}}</ref>

As of June 2022, a C-390 from the Fat Squadron (1st/1st GT) of the FAB participated for the first time in the Brazilian Antarctic Campaign, dropping supply loads for the Comandante Ferraz Antarctic Station.<ref name="aeromagazine.uol.com.br"/> The C-390 participated in 2022 in Operation Cooperation VII in Colombia, operating on runways of up to 2,100 meters, at altitudes simulating missions of humanitarian assistance and paratrooper launches.{{citation needed|date=May 2024}}

In 2023, aircraft participated in Operation Surucucu delivering supplies by air to the indigenous Yanomami peoples who live between the Orinoco and Amazon rivers. In 2023, they also participated in the Salitre IV exercise, in Chile, where a KC-390 and six F-5s carried out 50 combat missions with the tanker aircraft performing the first combat refueling in an international mission.<ref name="edrmagazine.eu"/>

In December 2024, Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) signed an agreement at Mostra BID, the National Defense and Security Fair in Brasilia, to deepen collaborative studies aimed at expanding the capabilities of the C-390 Millennium for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, with a focus on Maritime Patrol.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=Naval News |date=2024-12-04 |title=Embraer and Brazilian Air Force to Study MPA variant of C-390 Millennium |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2024/12/embraer-and-brazilian-air-force-to-study-mpa-variant-of-c-390-millennium/#prettyPhoto |access-date=2024-12-09 |website=Naval News |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Portugal=== [[File:Beja Airshow 2024 (53776678020).jpg|thumb|A Portuguese Air Force C-390]]

Among its first missions in the Portuguese Air Force in October 2023, the C-390 transported military personnel and cargo to the Canary Islands, Spain, in support of the multinational Spanish-led exercise Ocean Sky 2023. It then progressed to the United States where it picked up one of the Black Hawk helicopters procured by Portugal. On its return flight, it crossed the Atlantic Ocean on a direct flight from Providence, Rhode Island to Ovar.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://defence-industry.eu/portugal-conducts-first-force-projection-with-new-kc-390-transport-aircraft/ |title= Portugal conducts first force projection with new KC-390 transport aircraft |date= 26 October 2023 |work= Defence Industry Europe}}</ref>

== Marketing and potential orders == [[File:Embraer C-390 Millennium Wikipedia.jpg|thumb|Embraer C-390 Millennium at Aero India 2023]]

The C-390 has been marketed as a jet-powered alternative to the Lockheed C-130. In May 2023, the commander of the Brazilian Air Force, Brigadier Marcelo Kanitz Damasceno, pointed to Austria, the Czech Republic, Egypt, India, Rwanda, South Africa, South Korea, and Sweden as potential buyers for the KC-390.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/brazil-sees-wide-opportunities-for-kc-390-airlifter |title= Brazil sees wide opportunities for KC-390 airlifter |work= Jane's |date= 10 May 2023}}</ref>

* '''Angola:''' The National Air Force of Angola mentioned ordering four C-390s to replace its Antonov An-12 and other transport aircraft during a visit of the Brazilian president Lula in August 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Meier |first=Ricardo |date=2023-08-28 |title=Angola may acquire four Embraer KC-390s, says Brazilian government |url=https://www.airdatanews.com/angola-may-acquire-four-embrar-kc-390s-says-brazilian-government/ |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=Air Data News |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Meier |first=Ricardo |date=2023-10-01 |title=How many KC-390s can Embraer sell to potential interested countries? |url=https://www.airdatanews.com/how-many-kc-390s-can-embraer-sell-to-potential-interested-countries/ |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=Air Data News |language=en-US}}</ref> * '''Colombia:''' The Colombian Aerospace Force is in discussion for ordering up to 12 C-390s, as of August 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vinholes |first=Thiago |date=2023-04-17 |title=Colombia evaluates purchase of Embraer KC-390, says Brazilian government |url=https://www.airdatanews.com/colombia-evaluates-purchase-of-embraer-kc-390-says-brazilian-government/ |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=Air Data News |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Vinholes |first=Thiago |date=2023-05-19 |title=Eight countries are negotiating the acquisition of the KC-390, according to the commander of the Brazilian Air Force |url=https://www.airdatanews.com/eight-countries-are-negotiating-the-acquisition-of-the-kc-390-according-to-the-commander-of-the-brazilian-air-force/ |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=Air Data News |language=en-US}}</ref> * '''Egypt:''' Following collaboration agreements between Embraer and Egypt, there is a hope for a purchase of the C-390 for the Egyptian Air Force.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-27 |title=EGYPT: Embraer hopes to profit from Cairo-Brasilia rapprochement – 27/05/2022 |url=https://www.africaintelligence.com/north-africa/2022/05/27/embraer-hopes-to-profit-from-cairo-brasilia-rapprochement,109787826-gra |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=Africa Intelligence |language=en}}</ref> * '''Finland:''' In April 2025 it was announced by Embraer that the Finnish Air Force was interested in the C-390 to supplement existing Tactical Transport Aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/news/aerospace-news/2025/brazil-confirms-that-three-more-countries-are-close-to-buying-the-c-390-transport-aircraft |title=Brazil confirms that three more countries are close to buying the C-390 transport aircraft |website=Army Recognition |date=April 4, 2025 |access-date=May 14, 2026}}</ref> * '''Greece:''' The Hellenic Air Force has a need to replace the C-130H. Potential successors are second hand C-130J, or C-390, with 6 aircraft being considered.<ref name=":0" /> It evaluated the C-390 in November 2023 as a potential replacement for the ageing C-130s in service.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.airdatanews.com/hellenic-air-force-meets-with-embraer-again-to-discuss-the-c-390-millennium/ |title= Hellenic Air Force meets with Embraer again to discuss the C-390 Millennium |website=airdatanews.com |date= 29 November 2023 |publisher=Air Data News |access-date=3 December 2023}}</ref> * '''India:''' An MoU between Embraer Defense & Security, and Mahindra Group was signed in February 2024 with the intention of working together to offer C-390 aircraft to Indian Air Force in its upcoming Medium Transport Aircraft procurement project.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2024-02-09 |title=Embraer teams up with Mahindra to bid for IAF’s medium transport aircraft deal |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/embraer-teams-up-with-mahindra-to-bid-for-iafs-medium-transport-aircraft-deal/article67830254.ece |access-date=2025-10-17 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Siddiqui |first=Huma |date=2023-02-07 |title=IAF looking for new transport aircraft – Is Embraer’s C-390 Millennium coming? |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-iaf-looking-for-new-transport-aircraft-is-embraers-c-390-millennium-coming-2974348/ |access-date=2025-10-17 |website=The Financial Express |language=en}}</ref> The businesses will investigate the possibility of making India a future C-390 regional hub.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-02-09 |title=Mahindra, Embraer tie up for medium transport aircraft in India |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/mahindra-embraer-tie-up-for-medium-transport-aircraft-in-india/articleshow/107552178.cms |access-date=2025-10-17 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> In collaboration with the Mahindra Group, Embraer suggested setting up an assembly line in September 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2024-09-13 |title=Embraer proposes aircraft assembly line in India in partnership with Mahindra |url=https://infra.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/aviation/embraer-proposes-aircraft-assembly-line-in-india-in-partnership-with-mahindra/113307504 |access-date=2024-09-19 |website=ETInfra |language=en}}</ref> On 17 October 2025, Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Group signed a strategic cooperation agreement to advance the C-390 Millennium aircraft for the IAF's MTA programme. Simultaneously, Embraer inaugurated its national office in Aerocity, New Delhi. In order to explore opportunities for local production, assembly, joint marketing, and MRO facilities, they will engage with the Indian aerospace ecosystem.<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Embraer and Mahindra Group Forge Strategic Alliance to Introduce the C-390 Millennium to India |date=2025-10-17 |publisher=Mahindra Group |url=https://www.mahindra.com/news-room/press-release/en/embraer-and-mahindra-group-forge-strategic-alliance-to-introduce-the-c-390-millennium-to-india |access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=17 October 2025 |title=Embraer, Mahindra expand partnership to develop C-390 Millennium in India |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/embraer-mahindra-sign-deal-advance-c-390-millennium-indian-air-force-2025-10-17/ |access-date=17 October 2025 |work=Reuters}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Chandra |first=Jagriti |date=2025-10-17 |title=Embraer inaugurates India office, signs agreement with Mahindra group to develop a hub for C-390 military transport aircraft |url=https://www.thehindu.com/business/embraer-inaugurates-india-office-signs-agreement-with-mahindra-group-to-develop-a-hub-for-c-390-military-transport-aircraft/article70175922.ece |access-date=2025-10-18 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> On 20 February 2026, Embraer and Mahindra Group announced their plans to advance location selection to establish an MRO base in India subject to IAF's selection of C-390 in the MTA programme. The facility will provide in-country maintenance and sustenance of the Indian C-390 fleet as well as a potential regional MRO hub.<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Embraer and Mahindra Group Advance Localization Strategy in India with Planned C-390 Millennium MRO Capability |date=2026-02-19 |publisher=Mahindra Group |url=https://www.mahindra.com/news-room/press-release/en/embraer-and-mahindra-group-advance-localization-strategy-in-india-with-planned-c-390-millennium-mro-capability |access-date=2026-02-20}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2026-02-19 |title=Embraer, Mahindra Group plan to set up MRO base for C-390 aircraft in India |url=https://www.business-standard.com/companies/news/embraer-mahindra-grp-plan-to-set-up-mro-facility-for-c-390-millennium-aircraft-in-india-126021900760_1.html |access-date=2026-02-20 |work=Business Standard}}</ref> * '''Lithuania:''' The Lithuanian Air Force have started negotiations to purchase and add C-390s to its fleet.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-06-18 |title=Pradedamos derybos dėl karinių transporto orlaivių įsigijimo |url=https://kam.lt/pradedamos-derybos-del-kariniu-transporto-orlaiviu-isigijimo/ |access-date=2025-06-18 |website=LR Krašto apsaugos ministerija |language=lt-LT}}</ref> As of January 2026, the order was delayed for beyond 2030.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Manuel |first=Rojoef |date=2026-01-28 |title=Lithuania Delays Buying Embraer C-390 Amid Reprioritization |url=https://thedefensepost.com/2026/01/28/lithuania-delays-embraer-c390/ |access-date=2026-01-28 |website=The Defense Post |language=en-US}}</ref> * '''Morocco:''' Morocco has received one KC-390 Millennium for testing purposes, pending a potential acquisition agreement between Morocco and Brazil.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kasraoui |first1=Safaa |title=Moroccan Military Tests Brazil's KC-390 Millennium for Potential Acquisition |url=https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2024/03/22380/moroccan-military-tests-brazils-kc-390-millennium-for-potential-acquisition/ |agency=Morocco World News |date=7 March 2024}}</ref> In late 2024, Morocco announced it had selected the C-390 to replace its C-130 fleet.<ref>{{cite news |title=Morocco selects Brazilian Embraer C-390 Millennium to replace C-130 Hercules transport fleet. |url=https://armyrecognition.com/news/aerospace-news/2024/morocco-selects-brazilian-embraer-c-390-millennium-to-replace-c-130-hercules-transport-fleet |access-date=21 June 2025 |agency=Global Defense News |date=4 December 2024}}</ref> * '''Poland:''' In September 2025, Embraer offered the KC-390 to the Polish Air Force to fulfil its transport and tanker needs. Embraer suggested 20 airframes could be sold to Poland, with localized production included in the offer.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Głowacki |first1=Bartosz |title=At first MSPO appearance, Embraer offers Poland KC-390 both as transport and tanker |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2025/09/at-first-mspo-appearance-embraer-offers-poland-kc-390-both-as-transport-and-tanker/ |access-date=3 September 2025 |agency=Breaking Defense |date=3 September 2025}}</ref> * '''Rwanda:''' The Rwandan Air Force is cited as a potential client for two C-390s.<ref name=":0" /> * '''Saudi Arabia:''' In November 2023, it was reported that Embraer and Saudi Arabia's SAMI have partnered to pitch the C-390 transport to the Saudi Arabian government, including the potential for local assembly and support.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/embraer-sami-pitch-c-390-final-assembly-to-saudi-arabia/156036.article |title=Embraer, SAMI pitch C-390 final assembly to Saudi Arabia}}</ref> * '''Slovakia:''' The Slovak Air Force selected the C-390 in December 2024.<ref name="svk1">{{Cite web |date=26 November 2024 |title=La Aviación de Transporte Militar de Eslovaquia pone la mira en el KC-390 Millennium de Embraer |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/5080188/aviacion-transporte-militar-eslovaquia-podria-convertirse-otro-usuario-kc-390-millennium-embraer |website=Infodefensa |language=es}}</ref><ref name="svk2">{{cite web |date=10 December 2024 |title=Slovakia to enter talks to buy three C-390 aircraft, Brazil's Embraer says |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/slovakia-enter-talks-buy-three-c-390-aircraft-brazils-embraer-says-2024-12-10/ |access-date=11 December 2024 |publisher=Reuters}}</ref> Negotiations for the purchase of three aircraft are to begin.<ref name="svk2" /> * '''South Africa:''' The South African Air Force is in discussion for six C-390s as of September 2023.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> * '''United States:''' Embraer partnered with L3Harris to market the KC-390 to the United States Air Force (USAF) in 2022, but the partnership fell apart in late 2024.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Marrow |first1=Michael |last2=Insinna |first2=Valerie |title=EXCLUSIVE: L3Harris, Embraer no longer working together to pitch C-390 to US |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2024/10/exclusive-l3harris-embraer-no-longer-working-together-to-pitch-c-390-to-us/ |access-date=21 June 2025 |agency=Breaking Defense |date=11 October 2024}}</ref> Embraer has stated it still intends to market the KC-390 to the United States, specifically as a contender in the Next Generation Air Refueling System (NGAS). In 2025, L3Harris stated that they maintained a relationship with Embraer regarding Embraer's "Agile Tanker" concept of the KC-390. Embraer is developing a boom refueling system for the KC-390 to tailor to the USAF's need, and asserts that with local assembly, around 70% of the aircraft would be made of American-sourced components, and would abide by the Buy American Act. In 2024, a Brazilian Air Force KC-390 participated in Exercise Storm Flag, demonstrating austere takoff capabilities to the USAF.<ref name="Agile Tanker">{{cite news |last1=Hoyle |first1=Craig |title=USAF need fuels Embraer's ambition with KC-390 Agile Tanker |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/usaf-need-fuels-embraers-ambition-with-kc-390-agile-tanker/162390.article |access-date=21 June 2025 |agency=Flight Global |date=28 March 2025}}</ref> In June 2025, Embraer announced it was in talks with Northrop Grumman to pitch the C-390 to the USAF.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Diaz |first1=Pablo |title=Embraer in Talks with Northrop Grumman to Pitch C-390 to U.S. Air Force |url=https://www.aviacionline.com/embraer-in-talks-with-northrop-grumman-to-pitch-c-390-to-us-air-force |access-date=21 June 2025 |agency=Aviacionline |date=12 June 2025}}</ref> The Brazilian Air Force sent a KC-390 on tour to the United States in late April and early May 2025 to showcase its capabilities.<ref>{{cite news |title=Embraer successfully concludes KC-390 Millennium demo tour in the U.S. with static display at Joint Base Andrews |url=https://embraer.com/global/en/news%E2%80%A6?slug=1207563-embraer-successfully-concludes-kc-390-millennium-demo-tour-in-the-us-with-static-display-at-joint-base-andrews |access-date=21 June 2025 |agency=Embraer |date=12 May 2025}}</ref> Under a memorandum of understanding, Northrop will explore options to develop an autonomous boom refueling system for Embraer’s KC-390, hoping to attract US and international customers.<ref>https://breakingdefense.com/2026/02/northrop-brazils-embraer-partner-on-kc-390-to-pitch-us-others/</ref> * '''Turkey:''' In April 4, 2025, it was confirmed by the Brazilian Minister of Defense that negotiations with Turkey were open for the potential acquisition of the C-390.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/news/aerospace-news/2025/brazil-confirms-that-three-more-countries-are-close-to-buying-the-c-390-transport-aircraft |title=Brazil confirms that three more countries are close to buying the C-390 transport aircraft |website=Army Recognition |date=April 4, 2025 |access-date=May 14, 2026}}</ref>

BAE Systems signed an agreement with Embraer to market the C-390 to Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and United Arab Emirates.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Richard |date=2022-07-21 |title=Embraer and BAE Systems sign MoU to market C-390 |url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/news/embraer-and-bae-systems-sign-mou-to-market-c-390-in-the-middle-east/ |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=Airforce Technology |language=en-US}}</ref>

In April 2024, Embraer and Brazilian postal company Correios signed a Memorandum of Understanding focusing on air cargo transport. The partnership includes a plan to evaluate the C-390 as a civilian cargo aircraft for Correios.<ref name="Embraer 9Apr24">{{cite web |title=Embraer and Correios sign Memorandum of Understanding for optimization studies in air cargo transport |url=https://www.embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1207365-embraer-and-correios-sign-memorandum-of-understanding-for-optimization-studies-in-air-cargo-transport |website=Embraer}}</ref>

==Operators==  thumb|upright=1.4|C-390 orders as of December 2024 {{main|List of Embraer C-390 Millennium orders and deliveries}}

=== Current operators === ; {{flag|Brazil}} : Brazilian Air Force{{dash}}nineteen C-390s ordered,<ref>{{cite web |title=Brazil cuts three Embraer KC-390s, reducing order to 19 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/brazil-cuts-three-embraer-kc-390s-reducing-order-to-19/150664.article}}</ref><ref name="flight4sep2019" /> with eight delivered as of October 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |date=3 October 2025 |title=Embraer da un nuevo paso para completar la entrega de los 19 aviones KC-390 ordenados por la Fuerza Aérea Brasileña |url=https://www.zona-militar.com/2025/10/03/embraer-da-un-nuevo-paso-para-completar-la-entrega-de-los-19-aviones-kc-390-ordenados-por-la-fuerza-aerea-brasilena/ |access-date=6 October 2025 |website=Zona Militar |language=es}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2 October 2025 |title=Embraer entregou hoje o oitavo KC-390 Millennium para a FAB |url=https://forcaaerea.com.br/embraer-entregou-hoje-o-oitavo-kc-390-millennium-para-a-fab/ |access-date=6 October 2025 |website=Revista Força Aérea |language=pt-br}}</ref> :: 1st Troop Transportation Group ''Zeus''<ref name="Anapolis" /><ref name="Defesa2021">{{Cite web |url= https://www.defesaaereanaval.com.br/aviacao/presidente-bolsonaro-participa-da-cerimonia-de-recebimento-do-quinto-kc-390-da-fab |title= Presidente Bolsonaro participa da cerimônia de recebimento do quinto KC-390 da FAB |website= Defesa Aérea & Naval |date= 2 December 2021}}</ref> :: 1st Squadron of the 1st Transportation Group (1°/1°GT) ''Gordo''<ref>{{cite web |title=FAB celebra Dia do Especialista e incorpora aeronaves – Força Aérea Brasileira |url=https://www.fab.mil.br/noticias/mostra/38808/CERIM%C3%94NIA%20MILITAR%20-%20FAB%20celebra%20Dia%20do%20Especialista%20e%20incorpora%20aeronaves}}</ref> ;{{flag|Hungary}} : Hungarian Air Force{{dash}}two C-390s ordered in 2020,<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 November 2020 |title=Hungary Signs Contract For Acquisition of Two Multi-Mission KC-390 Millennium Airlifters |url=https://embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1206809-hungary-signs-contract-for-acquisition-of-two-multi-mission-kc-390-millennium-airlifters |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201117125553/https://embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1206809-hungary-signs-contract-for-acquisition-of-two-multi-mission-kc-390-millennium-airlifters |archive-date=17 November 2020}}</ref> delivered the first on 19 October 2023,<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 October 2023|title=Delivery of first Portuguese Air Force Millennium|url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/delivery-of-the-first-portuguese-air-force-millennium}}</ref> the second on 26 June 2024<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 July 2024|title=Second KC-390 Millennium for Portugal|url=https://theaviationist.com/2024/07/09/second-kc-390-portugal/|access-date=23 July 2024}}</ref> and the third in November 2025.<ref>{{cite web |title=Megérkezett a Magyar Honvédség második KC-390 Millennium szállító repülőgépe |url=https://honvedelem.hu/hirek/megerkezett-a-magyar-honvedseg-masodik-kc-390-millennium-szallito-repulogepe.html |website=honvedelem.hu |publisher=Ministry of Defence, Hungary |access-date=21 November 2025}}</ref> These aircraft are to be flown by Airlift Squadron "Teve" at Kecskemét Airbase.<ref name="DailyNewsHungary 11Apr24">{{cite web |title=First Embraer C-390 aircraft of Hungarian military to arrive tomorrow |url=https://dailynewshungary.com/first-embraer-c-390-arrives-tomorrow/ |website=Daily News Hungary|date=11 April 2024}}</ref><ref name="Alert5 12April24">{{cite web |title=Hungary welcomes first C-390 for testing |url=https://alert5.com/2024/04/12/hungary-welcomes-first-c-390-for-testing/ |website=Alert 5|date=12 April 2024}}</ref> The configurations that the Hungarian Defence Forces ordered include the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) kit, enabling Hungary to provide intensive care medicine in humanitarian missions abroad.<ref>{{cite web |date=17 November 2020 |title=Hungary Signs Contract For Acquisition of Two Multi-Mission KC-390 Millennium Airlifters |url=https://embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1206809-hungary-signs-contract-for-acquisition-of-two-multi-mission-kc-390-millennium-airlifters |access-date=29 January 2021 |website=embraer.com}}</ref> ; {{flag|Portugal}} : Portuguese Air Force{{dash}}five C-390s ordered in 2019 to replace its C-130s.<ref>{{Cite web |date=11 July 2019 |title=Portugal confirms purchase of military freighter KC-390 |url=https://www.airway1.com/portugal-confirms-purchase-of-military-freighter-kc-390/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190711191308/https://www.airway1.com/portugal-confirms-purchase-of-military-freighter-kc-390/ |archive-date=11 July 2019 |website=Airway}}</ref> The deal includes five C-390s and a flight simulator for pilot training, reportedly valued at €827 million. The first aircraft was delivered on 19 October 2022 at Beja Airbase<ref name="airrecognition.com">{{cite web |url=https://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/news/defense-aviation-news/2022-news-aviation-aerospace/october/8764-first-portuguese-kc-390-has-arrived.html|title=First Portuguese KC-390 has arrived |website=Airrecognition|date=20 October 2022}}</ref> and entered operational service a year later in October 2023.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/portugal-puts-first-nato-standard-c-390-transport-into-service/155467.article|title=Portugal puts first NATO-standard C-390 transport into service|access-date=20 October 2023 |website=www.flightglobal.com|date=20 October 2023}}</ref> The second aircraft was delivered in June 2024.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/embraer-delivers-second-kc-390-to-portuguese-air-force/158915.article |title=Embraer delivers second KC-390 to Portuguese air force|access-date=29 June 2024 |website=www.flightglobal.com|date=29 June 2024}}</ref> The third aircraft was delivered in July 2025.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://avitrader.com/2025/07/18/portugal-receives-third-kc-390-as-embraer-launches-a-29n-super-tucano-flight-test-campaign/ |title=Portugal receives third KC-390|access-date=18 July 2025 |website=AviTrader|date=18 July 2025}}</ref> In 2025, Portugal ordered another KC-390, increasing the total order to six; this is the first additional purchase by a current operator. In addition, Embraer and the Portuguese Air Force intend to include ten purchase options in the contract for potential future acquisitions by European nations or NATO through the Portuguese state.<ref name="scramble.nl">{{cite web |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/embraer-k-c-390-orders-at-the-paris-air-show |title=Embraer (K)C-390 orders at the Paris Air Show |access-date=20 June 2025 |website=Scramble.nl |date=19 June 2025}}</ref> In January 2026, the Portuguese Air Force received the fourth C-390M at its Air Base No. 11 in Beja. After its handover ceremony of the aircraft in Brazil at the Embraer factory in Gavião Peixoto, it was delivered via a stopover in Recife in an eight-hour non-stop flight across the Atlantic. This is the first C-390M equipped with a Cobham 912-E air-to-air refueling system for Portugal.<ref name="militaeraktuell">{{cite web|url=https://militaeraktuell.at/en/portugal-fourth-embraer-c-390-with-aerial-refueling-kit-delivered/ |title=Portugal fourth Embraer C-390 with aerial refueling kit delivered |access-date=29 January 2026|website=Militaeraktuell.at|date=26 January 2026}}</ref> :: 506 Squadron ''"Rinocerontes"'' Beja Airbase

=== Future operators === ; {{flag|Austria}} : Austrian Air Force{{dash}}four C-390s ordered in 2023 to replace its aging C-130Ks, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Meier |first1=Ricardo |title=Austria to replace C-130 Hercules with Embraer KC-390 – report |url=https://www.airdatanews.com/austria-to-replace-c-130-hercules-with-embraer-kc-390-report/ |access-date=20 September 2023 |website=airdatanews.com |date=19 September 2023 |publisher=Air Data News}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Entscheidung über C-130 "Hercules"-Nachfolge ist gefallen |date=20 September 2023 |trans-title=Decision on C-130 "Hercules" successor has been made |url=https://www.bundesheer.at/aktuelles/detail/entscheidung-ueber-c-130-hercules-nachfolge-ist-gefallen |access-date=26 September 2023 |language=de}}</ref> ; {{flag|Czech Republic}} : Czech Air Force{{dash}}two C-390s selected in October 2023 for its future aerial refueling and fixed-wing medium-lift transport requirements.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/czech-republic-selects-kc-390-tanker-transport-aircraft |title=Czech Republic selects KC-390 tanker-transport aircraft |date=17 October 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pascal |first=Kümmerling |date=2023-10-17 |title=La République tchèque sélectionne le C390 ! |url=https://www.avianews.ch/post/la-r%C3%A9publique-tch%C3%A8que-s%C3%A9lectionne-le-c390 |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=Avia news |language=fr |trans-title=The Czech Republic selects the C390!}}</ref> Contract signed on 25 October 2024,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://embraer.com/global/en/news/?slug=1207471-czech-republic-orders-two-embraer-c-390-millennium-multi-mission-aircraft |title=Czech Republic Orders Two Embraer C-390 Millennium Multi-Mission Aircraft |date=25 October 2024 |website=embraer.com |access-date=25 October 2024 |archive-date=27 October 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241027024514/https://embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1207471-czech-republic-orders-two-embraer-c-390-millennium-multi-mission-aircraft |url-status=dead }}</ref> with first aircraft delayed to be delivered in 2026, and second in 2027 or 2028.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 October 2024 |title=Otázky a odpovědi – Embraer C-390 Millennium |url=https://mocr.mo.gov.cz/informacni-servis/zpravodajstvi/otazky-a-odpovedi:-porizeni-letounu-embraer-c-390-millennium-254008/ |access-date=2025-01-24 |website=mocr.mo.gov.cz |language=cs}}</ref> The Czech Air Force was supposed to receive the first C-390 aircraft in November 2025. However, the manufacturer informed the Ministry of Defence about the delay. In exchange for later delivery, the DoD could receive additional supplies of materials and services for free. A new delivery date is under negotiation, but the first aircraft will probably be delivered during Q2 2026. ; {{flag|Netherlands}} : Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force{{dash}}selected the C-390 in 2022 with five airlifters ordered to replace its C-130H. Contract signed in July 2024 with deliveries to begin at the end of 2027.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Defensie |first=Ministerie van |date=16 June 2022 |title=Defensie vindt opvolger voor C-130 Hercules – Nieuwsbericht – Defensie.nl |url=https://www.defensie.nl/actueel/nieuws/2022/06/16/defensie-vindt-opvolger-voor-c-130-hercules |access-date=16 June 2022 |website=defensie.nl |language=nl-NL}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/netherlands-selects-c-390-hercules-replacement |title=Netherlands Selects C-390 as Hercules Replacement |work= Aviation Week}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.luchtvaartnieuws.nl/nieuws/categorie/4/militair/nederland-tekent-definitief-voor-embraer-c-390-als-nieuw-transportvliegtuig#:~:text=Nederland%20tekent%20definitief%20voor%20Embraer%20C%2D390%20als%20nieuw%20transportvliegtuig,-22%20juli%202024&text=Het%20ministerie%20van%20Defensie%20heeft,Lockheed%20C%2D130%20Hercules%20opvolgen |title=Netherlands signs defintively for C390 as new cargo plane; Luchtvaartnieuws |date=22 July 2024}}</ref> During the 2025 Paris Air Show, it was announced that the Netherlands ordered one aeromedical module unit, a self-contained, air-transportable and fully compatible with the C-390 cargo handling system roll-on/roll-off system. It will enhance the Netherlands' (and its partners Austria and Sweden) ability to conduct humanitarian, disaster relief and military medical operations abroad. The contract allows for potentially seven more of these modules for the three C-390 partners.<ref name="scramble.nl"/> ; {{flag|South Korea}} : Republic of Korea Air Force{{dash}}three C-390s ordered in 2023, to be introduced by 2026.<ref>{{Cite press release |date=4 December 2023 |title=South Korea selects the Embraer C-390 Millennium |url=https://embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1207319-south-korea-selects-the-embraer-c-390-millennium |publisher=Embraer |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20231205110158/https://embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1207319-south-korea-selects-the-embraer-c-390-millennium |archive-date=5 December 2023}}</ref><ref name="Munhwa Ilbo 2023-12-04">{{cite web |author=Jung Chung-sin |date=4 December 2023 |title=브라질 수송기, 한국 군용기 시장 첫 진출…엠브라에르 KC-390 '깜짝 선정' |url=https://www.munhwa.com/news/view.html?no=2023120401039930114008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204104523/https://www.munhwa.com/news/view.html?no=2023120401039930114008 |archive-date=4 December 2023 |access-date=4 December 2023 |publisher=Munhwa Ilbo}}</ref><ref name="KBS 2023-12-04">{{cite web |author=Kim Duk-hoon |date=4 December 2023 |title=군 대형수송기 2차 기종에 미국산 아닌 브라질산 '선정' |url=https://news.kbs.co.kr/news/pc/view/view.do?ncd=7833058 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204104154/https://news.kbs.co.kr/news/pc/view/view.do?ncd=7833058 |archive-date=4 December 2023 |access-date=4 December 2023 |publisher=Korean Broadcasting System}}</ref> ; {{flag|Sweden}} : Swedish Air Force{{dash}}selected in November 2024,<ref name="swe1">{{cite news |date=9 November 2024 |title=Brazil and Sweden deepen aerospace cooperation |url=https://www.government.se/press-releases/2024/11/brazil-and-sweden-deepen-aerospace-cooperation/ |website=Government of Sweden}}</ref><ref name="swe2">{{cite news |date=9 November 2024 |title=Suécia seleciona C-390 como sua nova aeronave de transporte multimissão |trans-title=Sweden selects C-390 as its new multi-role transport aircraft |url=https://www.cavok.com.br/suecia-seleciona-c-390-como-sua-nova-aeronave-de-transporte-multimissao |website=Cavok |language=pt}}</ref><ref name="swe3">{{cite news |date=9 November 2024 |title=Sweden selects the Embraer C-390 Millennium as its new military transport aircraft |url=https://embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1207480-sweden-selects-the-embraer-c-390-millennium-as-its-new-military-transport-aircraft |website=Embraer}}</ref> four units ordered plus an additional seven in option.<ref name="swe4">{{cite news |date=1 April 2025 |title=LAAD: Suécia confirma aquisição de 04 Embraer C-390 |url=https://www.defesaaereanaval.com.br/aviacao/laad-suecia-confirma-aquisicao-de-04-embraer-c-390 |website=Defesa Aérea e Naval |language=pt}}</ref><ref>{{Cite press release |title=Sweden confirms acquisition of four C-390 Millennium and secures production slots |url=https://embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1207539-sweden-confirms-acquisition-of-four-c-390-millennium-and-secures-production-slots |publisher=Embraer |date=1 April 2025}}</ref> The order is part of a trilateral agreement between Sweden, Austria and the Netherlands, including an option for seven additional aircraft.<ref>{{cite news |date=6 October 2025 |title=Sweden orders four Embraer C-390 Millennium as part of joint European procurement; contract includes seven additional options paving the way for future acquisitions|url=https://www.embraer.com/media-center/en/?mediatype=News&detail=22418-Sweden-orders-four-Embraer-C-390-Millennium-as-part-of-joint-European-procurement%3B-contract-includes-seven-additional-options-paving-the-way-for-future-acquisitions |website=Embraer}}</ref> ; {{flag|Uzbekistan}} : Uzbekistan Air Force{{dash}}undisclosed customer for the C-390 unveiled in February 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roukoz |first=Jules |date=2026-02-03 |title=Republic of Uzbekistan revealed as previously announced C-390 Millennium undisclosed customer |url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/republic-of-uzbekistan-revealed-as-previously-announced-c-390-millennium-undisclosed-customer |access-date=2026-02-03 |website=EDR Magazine |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Republic of Uzbekistan revealed as previously announced C-390 Millennium undisclosed customer |url=https://www.embraer.com/media-center/en/ |access-date=2026-02-03 |website=Embraer |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-02-03 |title=Uzbekistan Air Force to be the first C-390 operator in Central Asia - European Security & Defence |url=https://euro-sd.com/2026/02/news/air/49010/uzbekistan-air-force-to-be-the-first-c-390-operator-in-central-asia/ |access-date=2026-02-03 |language=en-US}}</ref> ; {{flag|United Arab Emirates}} : UAE Air Force{{dash}}on 4 May 2026, a contract was signed for 10 aircraft with an option for up to 10 additional aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.embraer.com/media-center/en/?mediatype=NEWS&detail=25860-Tawazun-Awards-Contract-to-Embraer-for-Up-to-20-C-390-Millennium-for-the-UAE-Air-Force |title=Tawazun Awards Contract to Embraer for Up to 20 C‑390 Millennium for the UAE Air Force |website=Embraer |date=May 4, 2024 |access-date=January 12, 2026}}</ref>

==Specifications (C-390 Millennium)== right|400px thumb|The approximate operating radius with different load weights

{{Aircraft specs |ref= ''Aviation Week'',<ref name=AvWeek19apr2019/> Embraer<ref>{{cite web |url= https://defense.embraer.com/global/en/c-390 |title= Embraer: C-390 millennium |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20191120023837/https://defense.embraer.com/global/en/c-390 |archive-date= 20 November 2019 |url-status= live}}</ref> |prime units?= met  |crew= 3 (two pilots, one loadmaster) |capacity= {{cvt|26,000|kg}} / 80 troops / 74 stretchers and 8 attendants / 66 paratroopers / 7 463L master pallets / 6 463L master pallets and 36 troops |length m= 35.2 |span m= 35.05 |height m= 11.84 |max takeoff weight lb= 191,800 |empty weight kg=35000 |fuel capacity= {{convert|50700|to|{{#expr:50700+3*8820}}|lb|kg|order=flip|abbr=on}} with 3 aux. fuel tanks |lift lb= 57,320 |more general= * '''Cargo hold length × height × width''': {{cvt|60.6|x|9.8|x|11.3|ft|m|order=flip}}

|eng1 number= 2 |eng1 name= IAE V2500-E5 |eng1 type= turbofan |eng1 lbf= 31,330

|cruise speed kts= 470 |cruise speed note= Mach 0.8 |stall speed kts= {{#expr:109/1.05round0}} |stall speed note= IAS |max speed kmh= 988 |max speed note= Mach 0.93 |range nmi= 2,710 |range note= with {{cvt|14000|kg}} payload ** {{cvt|1470|nmi|km|disp=output only}} (1,470 nmi; {{cvt|1470|nmi|mi|disp=output only}}) with {{cvt|23000|kg}} payload ** {{cvt|1080|nmi|km|disp=output only}} (1,080 nmi; {{cvt|1080|nmi|mi|disp=output only}}) with {{cvt|26000|kg}} payload |ferry range nmi= 3370 |ferry range note=– {{cvt|4570|nmi|km|disp=output only}} (4,570 nmi; {{cvt|4570|nmi|mi|disp=output only}}) max. with aux. fuel tanks |ceiling ft= 36000

|hardpoints= 3 |hardpoint capacity= POD Optical / IR Rafael Litening II / IFR Cobham 900E

|avionics= * Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion }}

;Systems and equipment * RWR / chaff & flare (self-defense systems) * DIRCM{{dash}}Directional Infrared Countermeasures (self-defense systems) * In-flight refueling system * Dual HUD system * Cabin lighting compatible with night vision systems * CCDP{{dash}}Continuously Computed Drop Point, an automated, accurate drop point calculation system<ref>{{cite AV media |url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=98&v=br1Qm-xcylU |title= Embraer's Continuously Computed Drop Point (CCDP) (video) |publisher= Embraer |access-date= 25 January 2021}}</ref> * CDS{{dash}}Container Delivery System<ref name="CDS&LVAD">{{cite web |url= https://embraer.com/global/en/news?slug=1206680-embraer-kc-390-millennium-airlifter-successfully-concludes-airdrop-testing-campaign |title= Embraer KC-390 Millennium airlifter successfully concludes airdrop testing campaign |website= embraer.com |access-date= 25 January 2021}}</ref> * LVAD{{dash}}Low Velocity Airdrop Delivery<ref name="CDS&LVAD"/> * EEPGS{{dash}}Emergency Electric Power Generator System (type RAT or Ram Air Turbine)

==See also== {{Portal|Aviation|Brazil}} {{aircontent |see also= |related= * Embraer E-Jet family * Embraer E-Jet E2 family |similar aircraft= * Airbus C295 * Airbus A400M Atlas * Antonov An-178 * Shaanxi Y-9 * Ilyushin Il-276 * Kawasaki C-2 * Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules |lists= * List of tanker aircraft }}

==References== {{Reflist}}

==External links== {{commons category|Embraer C-390 Millennium}} {{external media |image1= [http://www.flightglobal.com/assets/getasset.aspx?itemid=56365 Large cutaway diagram] }} * {{official website|https://defense.embraer.com/global/en/c-390}} * {{cite press release |url= http://www.embraer.com.br/institucional/download/2_025-Com-VPD-_C-390-I-07.pdf |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090320192110/http://www.embraer.com.br/institucional/download/2_025-Com-VPD-_C-390-I-07.pdf |archive-date= 20 March 2009 |title= Embraer has Military Transport Aircraft Under Study |publisher= Embraer |date= 19 April 2007}} * {{cite web |publisher= Embraer |date= October 2021 |title= C-390 Millennium Brochure |url= https://digitalws.co/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2021/02/C-390-Brochure.pdf |archive-date= 20 October 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20211020165522/https://digitalws.co/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2021/02/C-390-Brochure.pdf}} * {{cite news |url= https://aviationweek.com/awin/options-expand-heavy-lift |title= Options Expand in Heavy Lift |url-access= subscription |work= Aviation Week |date= 1 June 2009 |first= Bill |last= Sweetman}} * {{cite news |first= Siva |last= Govindasamy |title= Lockheed prepares for KC-390 competition |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/farnborough-lockheed-prepares-for-kc-390-competitio-344876/ |work= Flightglobal |date= 21 July 2010}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Embraer KC-390}} Category:Embraer aircraft Category:2010s Brazilian military transport aircraft Category:High-wing aircraft Category:T-tail aircraft Category:Argentina–Brazil relations Category:Brazil–Portugal relations Category:Aircraft first flown in 2015 Category:Twinjets Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear