The Embraer C-390 Millennium, already hailed as a reliable workhorse by North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) members like the Netherlands, Hungary, and most recently, the Czech Republic, is now taking strides toward securing a pivotal role in the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program. Following the Czech Republic’s recent procurement of two C-390s, Embraer executives have intensified efforts in India, exploring partnerships and supply chain expansions that would strengthen the C-390’s standing as a strong contender in a highly competitive market.
During their recent visit to India, Embraer executives engaged with local suppliers across sectors such as aerostructures, machining, composites, and software development. The Brazilian aerospace giant aims to establish a robust regional footprint, seeing India as a potential anchor in its supply chain strategy. The C-390’s versatile design and its capability to handle multiple missions — from tactical transport to humanitarian aid and medical evacuations — make it well-suited to India’s operational demands, especially amid the country’s increasing focus on rapid response and strategic mobility.
Strengthening the India Connection
India has a long history with Embraer, with 44 of its aircraft currently operating in the country. Among them are the IAF’s ERJ-145-based early warning aircraft, locally dubbed ‘Netra,’ which is used for critical intelligence and surveillance missions. Building on this legacy, Embraer’s latest partnership proposal for the C-390 involves Mahindra Defence Systems, with plans to establish a local assembly line if the C-390 is selected for the MTA program. This assembly would not only foster high-value manufacturing in India but also position Embraer as a partner in India’s defence self-reliance agenda.
“India’s well-established aerospace sector and the government’s commitment to defence manufacturing provide fertile ground for deep collaboration,” said Roberto Chaves, Embraer’s executive vice president for global procurement and supply chain, highlighting India’s potential role in Embraer’s growth strategy. The partnership would mark a significant shift, with Embraer offering not just tactical solutions but the transfer of advanced manufacturing capabilities to India’s defence sector.
Competing in a Crowded Market
Embraer’s C-390, with its impressive payload capacity of 26 tons and a top speed of 470 knots, has proven itself as a robust alternative to the widely used Lockheed Martin C-130J. This year, Lockheed Martin moved to bolster its own bid for India’s MTA program, proposing an Indian Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility for the C-130J in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems. With two global aerospace players contending for India’s procurement, competition is heating up, drawing in proposals that promise local production, logistical support, and advanced capabilities for the IAF.
The C-390’s flexibility, mission reliability, and capability to operate on unpaved runways are among its standout features. Globally, it boasts a mission capability rate of 93%, underscoring its dependability across various operational environments — an essential attribute for India’s demanding and varied geographies. Furthermore, the recent Czech Republic contract underscores the aircraft’s credibility among NATO allies, reinforcing its appeal to the IAF as a NATO-standard platform equipped for diverse missions.
Strategic Implications
As India evaluates options to modernise its fleet and boost its tactical airlift capabilities, Embraer’s proposition of a regional assembly line aligns closely with New Delhi’s ambitions of defence self-reliance. The C-390’s entry could support India’s goal of transforming its defence industry into an export-oriented hub, enhancing the “Make in India” program with advanced technology and sustainable manufacturing practices.
The decision on the MTA program is expected to play out over the coming months, with both Embraer and Lockheed Martin sharpening their focus on India’s unique needs. Should Embraer secure the contract, the C-390 would not only fulfill operational needs but also deepen the India-Brazil defence partnership, marking a significant step toward India’s strategic diversification in defence procurement.
As India considers its options, the C-390 Millennium stands ready — a symbol of Embraer’s ambitious pivot to the Indian market and a compelling choice for the IAF’s modern airlift needs.