In a significant step toward enhancing the operational versatility of the C-390 Millennium, Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) have signed an agreement to expand the platform’s special mission capabilities. The announcement, made at Mostra BID, the National Defence and Security Fair in Brasília, highlights a collaborative effort to explore the aircraft’s potential in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, with a particular emphasis on Maritime Patrol applications.
Evolution in Capability
The C-390 Millennium, renowned for its rugged design, advanced communication systems, and self-protection technologies, has already established itself as a world-class airlifter. This new initiative aims to leverage its existing features to meet the evolving demands of both the FAB and global customers.
Lieutenant-Brigadier Marcelo Kanitz Damasceno, Commander of the Brazilian Air Force, underscored the importance of these developments, stating, “The studies to adapt the C-390 Millennium aircraft to ISR missions have evolved in a structured way, analysing the aircraft’s capability to evolve in order to meet the current and future needs of the Brazilian Air Force, especially in relation to Maritime Patrol.”
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, echoed this sentiment: “We are honoured to move forward with the FAB on studies to expand the operational capabilities of the C-390 Millennium. It reinforces our commitment to always offer our customers an aircraft capable of carrying out their most challenging missions with unparalleled efficiency.”
A Global Leader in Its Class
The C-390 Millennium boasts a maximum payload of 26 tons, a top speed of 470 knots, and state-of-the-art technology. Its robust engineering supports operations on unpaved runways, making it ideal for diverse missions ranging from cargo transport to specialised military applications.
Currently in operation with air forces from Brazil, Hungary, Austria, South Korea, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Portugal, and Sweden, the C-390 Millennium has accumulated over 15,000 flight hours. The aircraft’s mission capability rate of 93% and mission completion rates exceeding 99% highlight its exceptional reliability.
Innovating for the Future
This latest agreement reflects Embraer’s commitment to evolving the C-390 Millennium to address modern defence and security challenges. The development of ISR capabilities will position the aircraft to meet global market demands and maintain its status as a preferred platform for next-generation air force modernisation programs.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: Embraer
