Embraer has commenced the structural assembly of Austria's first C-390 Millennium. This significant milestone was marked by an official ceremony at the Gavião Peixoto production facility, attended by a delegation of Austrian government representatives.
“We’re thrilled to start production of the first aircraft for Austria and we look forward to delivering the first aircraft to the Austrian Air Force soon. The C-390 is setting new standards as a medium airlift, truly multi-mission aircraft. It offers an unbeatable combination of the latest technology, reliability, and low operational costs, with unmatched performance”, said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.
With a maximum payload of 26 tons, a top speed of 470 knots, and state-of-the-art systems, the C-390 is the premier aircraft in its class. Its robust engines, large cargo bay with a rear ramp, and durable landing gear enable it to tackle the most demanding missions, even on unpaved runways. As a true strategic asset for its operators, the C-390 Millennium can perform a wide range of military and civilian tasks, such as cargo transport, personnel and vehicle deployment, peacekeeping operations, special operations, humanitarian aid, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, air-to-air refuelling, and disaster management.
The KC-390 aircraft, fitted with air-to-air refuelling equipment, can operate as both a tanker and a receiver. It can receive fuel from another KC-390 using pods installed under the wings.
Since being introduced to the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, and the Hungarian Air Force in 2024, the C-390 has proven its capability, reliability, and performance. The active fleet has accumulated over 16,300 flight hours, with a mission capability rate of 93% and mission completion rates surpassing 99%, highlighting exceptional productivity in its class.
Apart from Brazil, Portugal, and Hungary, the Netherlands announced their choice of the Millennium in 2022. By 2023, Austria, the Czech Republic, and the Republic of Korea had also selected the C-390, confirming the platform's success. In 2024, Sweden, Slovakia, and an unnamed customer opted for the C-390 as well.
