The new agreement builds upon the Memorandum of Understanding signed in February 2024 at the Embassy of Brazil in New Delhi, expanding the scope of collaboration to include joint marketing, industrialisation, and positioning India as a regional hub for the C-390 Millennium. Since that MoU, the C-390 has continued to expand its global operator base, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most capable and versatile aircraft in its class.

Under the partnership, Embraer and Mahindra will engage with stakeholders across India’s aerospace and defence ecosystem to identify opportunities for local manufacturing, assembly, supply chain integration, and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities. The long-term vision is to establish India as a manufacturing and support hub for the C-390 Millennium, catering to both domestic and regional demand.

This collaboration brings together Brazil’s cutting-edge aerospace innovation and India’s industrial strength, underscoring the deepening strategic and economic ties between the two nations.

Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, said:

“The agreement is a significant milestone in our relationship with Mahindra Group. India’s aerospace industry is dynamic and world-class, and together we aim to deliver the most advanced and reliable military transport solution to the Indian Air Force. This partnership is more than an aerospace deal – it reflects our commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat and the growing friendship between Brazil and India.”

Vinod Sahay, Member of the Group Executive Board at Mahindra Group, added:

“The C-390 Millennium is unmatched in capability, efficiency, and versatility. By deepening our collaboration with Embraer, together we will ensure that the C-390 Millennium for the IAF’s MTA campaign not only contributes to India’s security and aspirations but also supports the Make in India philosophy and further self-reliance.”

The C-390 Millennium is recognised as the most modern military transport aircraft in its class, capable of carrying a 26-ton payload — more than other medium-sized transport aircraft — and achieving speeds of up to 470 knots. It can perform multiple missions, including cargo and troop transport, airdrops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian operations, and can operate from temporary or unpaved runways. The aircraft can also be configured for air-to-air refuelling, both as a tanker and as a receiver.

With a demonstrated mission completion rate above 99%, the C-390 Millennium sets a benchmark for operational reliability and efficiency. It is already in service with air forces in Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, South Korea, Czech Republic, Sweden, Slovakia, Lithuania, and an undisclosed customer — proving its global appeal and suitability for India’s strategic transport requirements.