Brazilian aerospace company Embraer has introduced a striking new paint scheme for its KC-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. This fresh design will serve as the standard for the aircraft’s presence at trade shows, marketing campaigns, and international events. Notably, the update also opens the door for potential custom liveries for future customers, allowing for more tailored presentations of the aircraft.
According to Embraer, the revamped demonstrator is slated to make its debut at international aerospace and defense events before the conclusion of 2025, which underscores the company’s expanding focus on production and marketing efforts. The new livery signifies Embraer’s commitment to promoting the KC-390 on the global stage amid increasing demand for military transport capabilities.
Bosco da Costa Jr., CEO and President of Embraer Defense & Security, remarked on the significance of this visual identity. He noted it marks an important milestone in the lifecycle of the KC-390 Millennium, the aircraft touted as the multi-mission solution for the 21st century. He emphasized the aircraft’s combination of speed, agility, robustness, reliability, technology, and efficiency, highlighting how these features bolster the defense capabilities of its operators and foster strategic interoperability between allied nations.
This announcement follows a recent contract amendment signed with Lisbon, which includes additional delivery of the KC-390 to the Portuguese Air Force. Additionally, Embraer has actively marketed the tactical airlifter to the Polish government and other European partners at a recent exhibit held in Kielce.
The KC-390 Millennium boasts impressive specifications, including a wingspan of 35 meters (115 feet) with the capability to carry up to 26,000 kilograms (57,320 pounds) of cargo or accommodate 80 personnel. It has a fuel capacity of 35,000 kilograms (77,162 pounds) and is powered by two IAE V2500-E5 turbofan engines, enabling it to reach speeds exceeding 500 knots (926 kilometers or 575 miles per hour). The aircraft can also fly up to 4,570 nautical miles (8,464 kilometers or 5,259 miles) and operate at altitudes up to 11,000 meters (36,089 feet).
The versatile KC-390 can be deployed for a variety of missions, including personnel and equipment logistics, medical evacuations, firefighting, search and rescue, and humanitarian relief. Furthermore, it can be equipped with an electronic warfare suite, self-protection systems, and countermeasures against airborne missile threats, enhancing its survivability in contested environments.
