KC-390 Millennium: Embraer pitches Nato’s new favourite for IAF’s 80-aircraft deal, eyes India as production hub
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 22, 2026
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Embraer, a leading Brazilian aerospace company, has positioned its KC-390 Millennium as the top choice for India's Indian Air Force (IAF) to replace its aging Soviet-era transport aircraft. The IAF is looking to procure around 80 medium transport aircraft, and Embraer sees this as a major opportunity not only to supply the fleet but also to establish India as its primary production hub in the Asia-Pacific region. Francisco Gomes Neto, Embraer's President and CEO, highlighted the KC-390's advanced features, including a 26-ton payload capacity, ability to operate from short and unpaved runways, and superior speed compared to competitors like the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules. He emphasized that the KC-390 is NATO's preferred choice and aligns with modern interoperability standards.
The competition for India's $10 billion contract also includes Airbus Defence and Space’s A400M and the existing C-130J fleet, which the IAF currently operates 12 of. Embraer's KC-390 offers distinct advantages, such as a 25-30% higher speed and lower operational costs due to its jet-powered design, making it more efficient for long-haul missions. The company has also partnered with India’s Mahindra Group to explore local production and maintenance capabilities, potentially creating a regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hub in the country.
Embraer's strategy to position India as a production base underscores its commitment to the Asia-Pacific market. If selected, this deal could significantly boost India's aerospace manufacturing sector, generate jobs, and enhance technological collaboration between Brazil and India. Additionally, the KC-390's ability to serve multiple missions, including aerial refueling, makes it a versatile asset for modern air forces, further solidifying its appeal for the IAF.
This development matters as it highlights India's growing role in global defense procurement and production. By selecting the KC-390, India could strengthen its interoperability with NATO nations while bolstering domestic aerospace capabilities. The outcome of this competition will shape India's future air power and its strategic partnerships in the region.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/22/2026