On September 25, 2024, Embraer officially announced its intensified efforts to have its C-390 Millennium multi-mission military transport aircraft selected as the replacement for the South African Air Force’s (SAAF) aging C-130 fleet. The announcement was made during the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) International Exhibition, held from September 18 to 22 at Waterkloof Air Base. This major defense event saw Embraer showcasing the C-390’s advanced capabilities to a global audience, including defense experts, political leaders, and aviation professionals. Notable attendees included South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister of Defense Angie Motshekga.
The C-390 Millennium, known for transporting up to 26 tons of cargo at high speed, is designed to handle a wide range of military missions, including troop and equipment transport, medical evacuation, disaster relief, and aerial refueling. Embraer highlights its versatility and suitability for challenging operational conditions, making it a strong contender for strategic military transport.
While the Brazilian Air Force remains the primary operator of the K/C-390, several countries, including Portugal, South Korea, and the Czech Republic, have expressed interest. More recently, the Netherlands and Austria signed a joint agreement to procure nine units, and Hungary confirmed delivery of the aircraft earlier this year.
Africa is a key market for Embraer, which previously showcased the C-390 in South Africa in 2023. At this year’s AAD exhibition, the aircraft made its second appearance, offering SAAF officials another opportunity to assess its capabilities as a potential replacement for their aging fleet.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense and Security, emphasized the C-390’s strategic importance, praising its versatility and ability to meet the demands of both the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and other government agencies. SANDF representatives acknowledged the aircraft’s advanced technology and broad capabilities, expressing interest in furthering the selection process for a new transport fleet.
Embraer aims to position the C-390 as a strong competitor against rivals such as Lockheed Martin’s C-130J Super Hercules. With a focus on replacing aging C-130s worldwide, the C-390 offers superior payload and deployment capabilities, making it a formidable option in the ongoing competition for military transport aircraft.