Embraer has shifted its focus in the regional strategy for its C-390 Millennium aircraft, selecting the United Arab Emirates as the location for a new completion center instead of Saudi Arabia. This decision follows recent agreements with Abu Dhabi-based Ammroc and Global Aerospace Logistics, aimed at providing maintenance, repair, and operational support for the airlifter.
During a statement, Embraer CEO Bosco da Costa Jr. highlighted that maintaining two regional completion centers in the Gulf would not be practical, underlining the company’s dedication to operational efficiency and existing partnerships. This pivot comes after Embraer had previously proposed establishing a final assembly and support center in Saudi Arabia, contingent upon securing a substantial order from Riyadh. This proposal put Embraer in direct competition with Lockheed Martin’s C-130J.
Despite this strategic withdrawal, da Costa Jr. emphasized that Embraer retains strong relationships with both Saudi Arabia and the UAE and remains open to launching assembly and checkout facilities in the United States and India should significant orders arise in those markets.
The upcoming facility in the UAE, envisioned as a C-390 Center of Excellence, is set to comprise eight buildings and seven hangars, designed to accommodate over 20 aircraft.
The C-390 Millennium itself is a versatile medium-sized military transport aircraft capable of troop and cargo transport, aerial refueling, and medical evacuation. First flown by Embraer in 2015, it has already been integrated into Brazil’s Air Force and has seen exports to various countries, including Portugal and Hungary. The aircraft’s adaptability allows it to function effectively in austere environments, making it well-suited for rapid response and humanitarian missions, in addition to traditional military transport roles.
By establishing its hub in the UAE, Embraer aims to capitalize on the C-390’s versatility and enhance its footprint in the Gulf region, positioning the aircraft as a competitive alternative to established US and European models.
