The Dutch Ministry of Defence has entered into a contract with Brazilian aerospace company Embraer to procure nine C-390 Millennium aircraft as part of the ‘Replacement of Tactical Airlift Capacity’ programme.
The joint purchase involves cooperation with Austria, with five aircraft designated for the Royal Netherlands Air Force and four for the Austrian Air Force.
Embraer stated that the collaborative acquisition will also enable both countries – along with existing and prospective users – to collaborate and take advantage of synergies in fields such as training, logistics, and the future expansion of the platform, in conjunction with other C-390 operators within NATO countries.
“It is great that we can sign this agreement for both Austria as the Netherlands. I’m happy to see that we can buy these planes with the same specifications. This is a good example of collaboration in Europe between countries. The constructive support of Embraer has played a crucial role in the successful realization of this agreement. We appreciate the contribution of Embraer and look forward to a successful cooperation”, said Vice-Admiral Jan Willem Hartman, National Armaments Director of the Netherlands.
“We welcome the Netherlands and Austria as the newest members of the growing group of nations that have ordered the C-390 Millennium, the most efficient and modern military tactical transport currently in operation”, said Bosco da Costa Jr, President and CEO, Embraer Defense & Security.
“This aircraft is the best choice in the market, offering an unbeatable combination of high performance, advanced technology and low life cycle costs.”
In September 2023 Austrian Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner announced that the Embraer C-390 would be the new replacement for the C-130 Hercules which has been in operation with the Austrian Armed Forces for two decades.
Since its introduction into service with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the C-390 has demonstrated its capacity, reliability, and performance. The current fleet of operational aircraft has amassed over 13,000 flight hours, boasting a mission-capable rate of 93% and mission completion rates exceeding 99%, showcasing outstanding productivity within its category.
The C-390 has the ability to carry a larger payload (26 tons) compared to other medium-sized military transport aircraft, as well as flying faster (470 knots) and farther, enabling it to undertake a wide array of missions including cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian operations, even on temporary or unpaved runways.
When equipped with air-to-air refuelling capabilities, designated as the KC-390, the aircraft can function as both a tanker and a receiver, allowing it to receive fuel from another KC-390 using pods installed beneath the wings.
