First Brazilian Embraer C-390 Millennium aircraft arrives in Hungary.

On April 12th, the Kecskemét Air Base in Hungary witnessed the arrival of the first of two Embraer KC-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. This delivery is part of the ongoing modernization of the Hungarian Defense Forces. The aircraft, which had departed from Brazil earlier in the week, was welcomed by two Saab Gripen fighter jets, emphasizing the significance of this event.
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The KC-390 Millennium can carry a maximum payload of 26 tons and transport up to 80 troops or 64 paratroopers (Picture source: Hungarian MoD )

Zsolt Kutnyánszky, the Hungarian Secretary of State for Defense, stated that this first KC-390 would remain in Hungary for three weeks of testing before returning to Embraer's facilities for final assembly. This process mirrors that used for the KC-390 of the Portuguese Air Force. A second aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2025.

The introduction of the KC-390 addresses the increased need for air mobility following the retirement of the Antonov An-26 transport planes, which were deactivated in 2020 after Hungary decided against sending them to Russia for overhaul. The arrival of these new jets, the first to be equipped with an intensive care unit, represents a pivotal enhancement of the country's aerial capabilities.

Dr. Kutnyánszky mentioned that this testing period provides an excellent opportunity for Hungarian specialists to familiarize themselves with the technology well before the official reception of the aircraft. This highlights the importance of modernization in the areas of air policing and air defense, identified as priorities in the development of the armed forces.

The KC-390 Millennium is a state-of-the-art military transport aircraft developed by the Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. Designed to replace older turboprop transport aircraft, the KC-390 features advanced avionics and systems. It is highly adaptable and capable of executing a range of military and humanitarian missions, such as transporting troops, cargo, and paratroopers, as well as conducting medical evacuations and search and rescue operations. The aircraft includes a rear ramp for loading a variety of cargo, including wheeled armored vehicles.

In terms of performance, the KC-390 Millennium has impressive capabilities: it can carry a maximum payload of 26 tons and transport up to 80 troops or 64 paratroopers. It has a wingspan of 35.05 meters, can reach a maximum speed of 870 km/h, and has a range of up to 6,500 kilometers without refueling. Its design also supports air-to-air refueling, enhancing its operational flexibility and reach. This blend of capacity, speed, and range makes the KC-390 an appealing choice for modern air forces looking to enhance or expand their transport capabilities.

To support the operation of this advanced technology, a group of ten Hungarian air maintenance specialists is currently undergoing both academic and practical training at the manufacturer's facilities in Brazil. Additionally, a team of 18 professionals, mostly engineers, joined by William Souza, a test pilot for the aircraft, is currently in Kecskemét to oversee the initial tests.

The arrival and integration of the KC-390 mark a new and critical phase for the Hungarian Air Force, aligning with contemporary challenges and the increased demands for mobility and defense.

Defense News April 2024