Yesterday, on June 26, at its Gavião Peixoto facility, Embraer completed the delivery of the second KC-390 Millennium transport and refueling aircraft to the Portuguese Air Force. The Brazilian company highlighted that this aircraft is equipped according to NATO standards and meets the requirements set by the Portuguese National Aeronautical Authority.
This delivery, the second to an European operator, will soon be followed by another KC-390 for the Hungarian Air Force. This milestone reflects the efforts made by Embraer and the partner countries involved in the program. As of today, both the C-390 and KC-390 versions are gaining significant momentum, with new operators being selected and growing interest from countries seeking to renew their transport aircraft fleets. This is evidenced by the selection of the aircraft by Austria, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic (which is part of the program), Hungary, and South Korea. Specifically, Portugal participates in the program through the local company OGMA, having received its first aircraft in 2023, which entered service with the Portuguese Air Force and operates from Beja Air Base.
On the occasion of this aircraft’s incorporation, the second of a total of five, General João Cartaxo Alves, Chief of Staff of the Portuguese Air Force, stated: “With the delivery of this second aircraft, we will accelerate the integration of this distinguished capability into the Portuguese Air Force, allowing us to increase operational missions and prepare more crew and technicians for the future. With the results already obtained from the first aircraft, it is clear that with this second one we will see the Portuguese KC-390s flying worldwide, demonstrating their capabilities, versatility, and availability, and providing added value to the missions of Portugal, its partners, and alliances.”
Embraer also emphasized this significant milestone for the company and the KC-390 program. Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, said: “The delivery of the second KC-390 Millennium to the Portuguese Air Force is another important step in the internationalization of our aircraft, which is gaining recognition in the market, particularly among NATO nations. The Portuguese Air Force is a long-term partner of Embraer and has strategically supported us from the beginning of the program. We will continue to work together to advance our partnership in the coming years.”
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