Embraer is showcasing its C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft at the Africa Aerospace & Defence (AAD) expo which commenced on 18 to 22 September 2024, at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria.

As a strategic asset, the C-390 Millennium performs a wide spectrum of military and support missions serving and assisting armed forces and other government departments.

“The C-390 Millenium is designed from the start to be versatile, it is not only excellent for military missions, but it can also perform tasks of national interest such as disaster management, medical evacuation, maritime surveillance and firefighting. We are confident that the C-390 is a perfectly suitable aircraft for the diverse needs of the South African Air Force and ministries” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.

With a carrying capacity of 26 tons, a speed of 470 knots, and state-of-the-art avionics, the C-390 is the best aircraft in its class. Its powerful engines, large cargo hold equipped with a rear ramp and robust landing gear enable it to carry out the most demanding missions from unpaved runways. A true strategic asset for its end users, the C-390 Millenium can perform a wide range of military and civilian missions such as Transport of freight, personnel and vehicles for peace keeping operations, Special operations, Humanitarian support, Medical Evacuation, Search and Rescue, Maritime Surveillance, Fire Fighting, Air to air refueling, Disaster management.

Recently, the C-390 equipped with a roll-on/roll-off Intensive Care Unit capability, entered service with the Hungarian Air Force, enabling it to support critical medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and humanitarian missions.

Since entering operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the C-390 has proven its operational efficiency, and reliability. Thanks to its leading performance, cost effectiveness and versatility, the C-390 was selected by several nations like Brazil, Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic and South Korea.

The current fleet of aircraft in operation has accumulated more than 14,000 flight hours, with mission capable rate of 93% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category.