Embraer has commenced the structural assembly of the inaugural C-390 Millennium aircraft for the Austrian Air Force, marking a significant milestone in the joint procurement plan initiated last year. The collaborative order, placed in July 2022, involved a partnership with the Netherlands, resulting in a commitment for five C-390 systems for the Royal Netherlands Air Force and four units intended for Austria.
The C-390 Millennium was specifically chosen by Austria in 2023 to succeed its aging fleet of C-130H Hercules aircraft. As negotiations with the Dutch government regarding the joint purchase continue, the anticipated financial implications for Austria’s acquisition of the four C-390 units are estimated to fall between 130 and 150 million euros, equating to approximately $139 to $160 million.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, articulated the aircraft’s capabilities, stating, “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.” This sentiment underscores the potential of the C-390 to enhance Austria’s airlift capabilities.
With an impressive versatility, the C-390 Millennium is engineered to execute a broad spectrum of military and civilian missions. Its role encompasses cargo transport, personnel and vehicle deployment, and support for peacekeeping operations. It is also suited for humanitarian assistance, medical evacuation, search and rescue, and firefighting activities. Notably, the aircraft features a cargo floor that accommodates heavy, tracked, and wheeled vehicles weighing up to 26,000 kilograms (57,320 pounds).
The C-390 is also configured for air-to-air refueling missions, capable of functioning as both a tanker and a receiver. It can refuel both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft at various altitudes, ranging from 2,000 feet (609 meters) to 32,000 feet (9,753 meters), showcasing its operational flexibility.
The C-390 has gained traction globally, with several nations placing orders for the aircraft in recent years. Sweden and Slovakia made their selections in 2024, shortly after the Hungarian Air Force officially integrated the Millennium into its fleet. The Czech Republic and South Korea joined the growing list of countries opting for the C-390 in 2023. Meanwhile, the Portuguese Air Force began operating the C-390 two years prior, with the Brazilian Air Force being the first to incorporate the aircraft into service back in 2019.
As Embraer progresses with the structural assembly of Austria’s first C-390 Millennium, the aircraft’s entry into service is poised to significantly bolster the operational capabilities of the Austrian Air Force while enhancing joint multinational defense collaborations.
