The STOUT project, for an aircraft with hybrid propulsion, remains on Embraer’s agenda, despite the withdrawal of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), which would be a partner in the development of the utility model.
In a meeting with journalists last week, Jackson Schneider, executive president of Embraer Defense & Security, said that the manufacturer remains committed to the project. “We intend to [resume the project] as the conditions allow, even with different partners,” the head of Embraer’s military products division told Flight Global.
In May, the Air Force Commander, Lieutenant Brigadier Carlos de Almeida Baptista Junior, confirmed the departure from the program due to budget constraints. The STOUT was proposed to replace the older C-95 Bandeirante turboprops, in service with the force for nearly five decades, in addition to the C-97 Brasilia.
According to the outlet, Schneider said that Embraer’s initial studies of the hybrid plane proved to be valuable. However, the executive emphasized that the manufacturer needs “different potential partners” to take the project forward, which would eliminate dependence on the Brazilian Air Force.
Versatile and sustainable aircraft
Jointly announced by FAB and Embraer in 2020, the STOUT project was the reason for an agreement that would give rise to an advanced aircraft, capable of operating with a more efficient propulsion system and low emission of polluting gases.
Computer-generated images presented by Baptista Junior’s predecessor, Brigadier Antonio Carlos Moretti Bermudez, in December 2020, revealed an aircraft with a configuration similar to the reduced-scale KC-390 Millennium, but equipped with four engines, two turboprops and two other engines. electrical, at the tips of the wings.
Also according to Bermudez, the STOUT, an acronym for “Short Take Off Utility Transport”, would be able to operate on short and semi-prepared runways, would carry three tons of payload or 30 soldiers and would fly for up to 2,425 km without replenishment. The project was also supposed to have a civilian variant.
