Key facts
- Embraer is pitching its KC-390 Millennium aircraft to the Indian Air Force for a potential contract of up to 80 planes.
- The KC-390 has a 26-tonne payload capacity and can operate from short, unpaved runways.
- The deal could be worth up to $12 billion, with an RFP expected soon.
- Embraer plans to maximize indigenous content and use India as a production hub for the Indo-Pacific.
- Embraer has formed partnerships with Mahindra Group and Adani Defence & Aerospace for local manufacturing and MRO in India.
Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer is actively pitching its KC-390 Millennium multi-mission transport and air refuelling aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF) to meet a requirement for up to 80 medium military transport planes. The KC-390 boasts a 26-tonne payload capacity, reportedly exceeding the C-130J's 20-tonne capacity, and is capable of operating from short, unpaved runways. The deal is potentially valued at up to $12 billion, with a Request for Proposal expected in the coming months.
The KC-390 is in direct competition with Lockheed Martin's C-130J Super Hercules and Airbus's A400M. Embraer claims the KC-390 is 25-30% faster than its turboprop competitors and offers lower operational costs. The aircraft can be configured for various operations, including troop, VIP, and cargo transportation, as well as mid-air refuelling.
If selected, Embraer intends to ensure maximum indigenous content and utilize India as a production base for other Indo-Pacific markets. Embraer CEO Francisco Gomes Neto expressed optimism about securing the order, stating the aircraft meets India's expectations and affirming commitment to 'Make in India'.
Embraer has formed strategic partnerships to support its bid. With Mahindra Group, the company plans to establish local manufacturing and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities. Additionally, a partnership with Adani Defence & Aerospace aims to create an integrated regional transport aircraft ecosystem in India, potentially including a Final Assembly Line for the E175 regional jet in Gujarat's Dholera Special Investment Region. This collaboration leverages Embraer's manufacturing expertise and Adani's aviation value-chain footprint.