Embraer will once again take the C-390 Millennium tactical transport aircraft to India to showcase it during Aero India 2025, an exhibition that will take place in the city of Bengaluru from February 10 to 14.
The military cargo plane, which has just completed 10 years since its first flight, is competing for an order for up to 80 aircraft from the Indian Air Force (IAF) under the MTA (Medium Transport Aircraft) program.
The Indian government intends to choose an aircraft that can be produced in the country in order to increase investments and aerospace technology.
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The C-390’s rivals include the C-130J from Lockheed Martin and the A400M from Airbus, but there is no deadline for the conclusion of the bidding process.
“Embraer is excited to be back at AeroIndia as we showcase the KC-390 Millennium and our broad portfolio of defense and security solutions to the industry,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO, Embraer Defense & Security.
Small presence in India
Despite losing nine orders from the Brazilian Air Force, the C-390 has been winning new customers. In addition to Brazil, Portugal and Hungary, the jet won the competition from the Netherlands in 2022 and the following year was selected by Austria, the Czech Republic and South Korea.
Last year, Sweden, Slovakia and an undisclosed customer also opted for the KC-390.
The Indian market is considered the one with the greatest growth potential in aviation as a whole. Embraer, however, has a small presence in relation to the aircraft fleet.
According to the company, there are about 40 aircraft registered in India, including Legacy 600 jets, the ‘Netra’ AEW&C aircraft (ERJ145) operated by the IAF, and nine E175 and ERJ145 regional jets from Star Air, a Bangalore-based carrier that plans to add another five aircraft by March.
