Embraer Delivers Second KC-390 Millennium Cargo Aircraft to Portuguese Air Force.

On July 2, 2024, the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer announced the delivery of the second KC-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft to the Portuguese Air Force (FAP). This delivery marks an important step in Portugal's continued commitment to strengthening its air capabilities, as well as in expanding the international presence of the KC-390.
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Embraer KC-390 Millennium Cargo Aircraft (Picture source: Embraer)

In 2019, the Portuguese Air Force signed a contract with the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer for the acquisition of five KC-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft, with a total value of 827 million euros. This contract also included a comprehensive package of services and support, as well as a flight simulator. This initiative aimed to strengthen Portugal's air capabilities and modernize its fleet. The first KC-390 was delivered in October 2023 and was stationed at Beja Air Base. The recent delivery of the second aircraft marks a new step in the implementation of this strategic agreement, intended to enhance the operational efficiency of the Portuguese Air Force and bolster its national and international missions.

The delivered KC-390 is equipped with standard NATO equipment, integrated to meet the stringent requirements of Portugal's National Aeronautical Authority (AAN). This order is part of a contract signed in 2019, which includes the acquisition of five KC-390 aircraft, along with a comprehensive package of services and support, as well as a flight simulator. The first KC-390 joined the FAP ranks in October 2023, stationed at Beja Air Base.

Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, praised this delivery as "an important new step in the internationalization process of our aircraft, which is gaining recognition in the market, especially among NATO nations. The Portuguese Air Force is a long-term strategic partner, and we will continue to strengthen our collaboration in the coming years."

General João Cartaxo Alves, Chief of Staff of the Portuguese Air Force, expressed his enthusiasm: "With the delivery of this second aircraft, we will accelerate the integration of this unique capability into the Portuguese Air Force. This will allow us to increase operational missions and prepare more crew members and technicians for the future. The results achieved with the first aircraft are promising, and we are confident that this second KC-390 will also demonstrate its capabilities, versatility, and availability, adding significant value to Portugal's missions and its allies."

Since entering service with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the KC-390 has proven its capacity, reliability, and exceptional performance. The current fleet has accumulated over 13,000 flight hours, with an operational availability of approximately 80% and mission completion rates above 99%, establishing remarkable productivity in its category.

The KC-390 stands out for its ability to carry a maximum payload of 26 tons, surpassing other medium-sized military transport aircraft. It can also fly at a speed of 470 knots and cover longer distances. Designed for a variety of missions, the KC-390 can transport and drop cargo and troops, perform medical evacuations, search and rescue missions, firefighting, and humanitarian missions. Additionally, it is capable of operating on temporary or unpaved runways, such as packed earth, soil, and gravel.

The KC-390, configured for air-to-air refueling, has already demonstrated its capabilities both as a tanker and a receiver, by receiving fuel from another KC-390 using pods installed under the wings.

This second delivery strengthens the position of the Portuguese Air Force and highlights Embraer's expertise in providing high-performance multi-mission aircraft, thus consolidating a lasting strategic partnership between Portugal and Brazil.