When Embraer decided to develop a new military multi-role transport aircraft, the main requirements were that the aircraft should combine flexibility, advanced technology with maximum operational suitability and high productivity. The result? The C-390 Millennium.
Setting a new standard with an unbeatable combination of mature, proven and innovative technologies, the C-390 Millennium is conquering the world with its flexible and efficient airlift capabilities. The aircraft has aroused the interest of several countries around the world, including NATO nations, which are looking for a capable, efficient, multi-mission new-generation military transport that requires little ground support. Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, and South Korea have already chosen the C-390 Millennium to meet their military transport requirements.
Describing the C-390 Millennium as a masterpiece of innovation and perfection is no exaggeration. Embraer has developed the new military multi-role transport aircraft in close cooperation with the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) to meet their very demanding requirements and is now revolutionizing the market with a completely new concept. The C-390 positions itself as a versatile platform, with its capability, versatility and availability, providing added mission value for Air Forces, partners and alliances, with low operating costs, ease of maintenance, exceptional fleet performance and maximum operational readiness. Incorporating modern equipment that leaves nothing to be desired.
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Whether you look at the tactical radar, the self-protection systems (against both IR and radar threats), the avionics and the ultra-modern cargo handling options; or the modular roll-on/roll-off system for firefighting, the computer-controlled, pinpoint-accurate load drop for precise supply from the air or the possibility of equipping night vision systems and intensive care facilities - the technologies used meet the highest standards; they enable interoperability and connectivity in joint all domain networks.
The motto "one aircraft - many possibilities" reflects the ability rapidly re-configure between a wide variety of operational tasks and scenarios ranging from the aerial refueling of fighter jets to cargo tasks.. The C-390 can also be equipped with a detachable EO/IR pod to perform search and rescue (SAR), aerial reconnaissance or special operations. In addition, the aircraft can easily withstand even the most demanding conditions and challenges - from ice, snow and freezing temperatures in the Arctic and Antarctic to the extremely high humidity in jungle areas and exceptionally hot and dry environments such as deserts; there are no limitations to its usability including Natural Surface Operations onto gravel, unpaved or austere surfaces.
Since entering operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the C-390 has proven its capacity, reliability, and performance. The current fleet of aircraft in operation has accumulated more than 13,000 flight hours, with mission capable rate of 93% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category.
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The C-390: One aircraft - many highlights
• With the C-390, Embraer has created a completely new generation of transport aircraft with entirely new possibilities.
• Flexibility was a top priority during design and development. The C-390 therefore offers a wide range of applications and is unrivaled in its class in terms of air mobility and cargo capacity.
• The aircraft already meets all future CNS/ATM requirements (CNS = Communication, Navigation and Surveillance - ATM = Air Traffic Management) and is equipped with the latest military mission systems.
• From the driest desert regions to icy conditions in the Arctic and Antarctic, the C-390 has been developed for use in even the harshest environments.
• Optimized fleet performance thanks to an easily reconfigurable multi-mission design and maximum ease of maintenance.
• Powerhouse: The C-390 flies faster, further and transports more payload than comparable transport aircraft.
• Thanks to its speed and versatility, the C-390 can quickly reach remote and affected communities in the event of a disaster, bringing help and support when it is needed most.