Sweden to Modernize Airlift Fleet with Acquisition of Brazilian C-390 Military Transport Aircraft.

On November 9, 2024, Sweden's Minister of Defense, Pål Jonson, signed a letter of intent during a meeting in Brazil, marking the initiation of Sweden's acquisition process for the Embraer C-390 as its next-generation military transport aircraft. This agreement highlights Sweden’s commitment to modernizing its tactical airlift capability, replacing the aging TP 84 Hercules fleet, which has served for over 50 years. The procurement process, managed by Sweden's Defense Materiel Administration (FMV), signals a new era in Swedish-Brazilian defense cooperation and sets the stage for enhanced interoperability in tactical and strategic air transport.
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Chosen to replace Sweden's TP 84 Hercules, the C-390 can carry 26 tonnes or 80 troops, enhancing tactical airlift capabilities and marking deeper defense ties with Brazil .(Picture source: Wikimedia)

Lieutenant General Carl-Johan Edström, Chief of the Swedish Defense Staff, underscored the importance of this acquisition: “This allows us to take a long-awaited step and begin the process of securing a long-term tactical transport aviation capability to meet operational demands.” The Swedish Armed Forces have faced increasing challenges with the TP 84 fleet, particularly concerning aircraft availability and maintainability, which the advanced C-390 platform aims to address.

The Embraer C-390 Millennium, developed by Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer, has quickly gained international attention for its robust performance in tactical transport operations. As a modern medium-haul tactical airlift aircraft, the C-390 can carry up to 26 tonnes of cargo or transport 80 troops, providing a versatile solution for Sweden’s diverse military transport needs. The C-390 offers a range of features that align well with Sweden’s requirements, especially in light of current operational demands. Major General Jonas Wikman, Chief of the Swedish Air Force, expressed his optimism about the acquisition: “It is very satisfying that we are now approaching a long-term solution, and the C-390 is a highly qualified platform with significant growth potential. We are now fully focused on implementing this crucial capability as swiftly as possible.”

The C-390 Millennium is engineered for performance and adaptability across a range of missions, from humanitarian relief to troop and cargo transport. It has a substantial payload capacity of 26 tonnes, making it suitable for transporting military vehicles, large equipment loads, or up to 80 troops, which is ideal for Sweden's varied tactical missions. The C-390’s two International Aero Engines V2500-E5 turbofans allow it to reach a maximum speed of 870 km/h (470 knots), enabling rapid deployment and response capabilities.

With a range of approximately 2,800 kilometers (1,740 miles) when fully loaded, the C-390 provides operational flexibility across diverse terrains and environments and can operate from unpaved runways, a significant advantage for Swedish defense operations. Additionally, its state-of-the-art avionics suite integrates advanced navigation, communication, and mission management systems, enhancing situational awareness and enabling real-time data sharing during missions. The C-390’s ability to perform air-to-air refueling as both a receiver and a tanker further increases its operational versatility, making it suitable for extended missions.

Beyond modernizing Sweden’s tactical airlift fleet, the letter of intent signed between Sweden and Brazil strengthens the defense partnership between the two nations, particularly in aviation. Both countries have previously collaborated in defense technology, most notably with Sweden’s Saab Gripen fighters, which are now an integral part of the Brazilian Air Force. Extending this collaboration to tactical transport capabilities opens avenues for joint training initiatives and cooperation in maintenance and support. 

This letter of intent represents a strategic step forward for both nations and underscores the growing role of the Embraer C-390 in global defense aviation. As Sweden moves forward with this procurement, it not only enhances its operational capabilities but also strengthens a valuable international partnership with Brazil, promising mutual benefits and operational synergies in the years to come.