The Czech Republic’s Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces has officially launched negotiations with Embraer for the acquisition of the cutting-edge Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. This decision comes following a comprehensive market assessment and analysis by the Ministry of Defense, which identified the C-390 as the ideal solution to fulfill the operational requirements of the Czech Army.
Graphic: Embraer
The Czech Republic’s intention is to secure two C-390 Millennium aircraft, a move that will significantly bolster the nation’s airlift capabilities. These versatile aircraft will empower the Czech Army to execute a wide range of critical missions, including air transport, air assault operations, aerial resupply, medical evacuation, humanitarian aid, air-to-air refueling, and firefighting. Notably, the C-390 Millennium is renowned for its reduced maintenance demands, translating into increased availability and cost-effectiveness over its operational life.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are honored to be selected by the Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces to commence negotiations for this significant acquisition. We are prepared to provide the Czech Republic with the most advanced medium transport aircraft available on the market. The C-390 Millennium’s unique combination of high productivity, operational flexibility, and cost-efficiency has garnered attention from numerous nations worldwide.”
The negotiations are geared toward the prospective signing of an acquisition contract for two C-390 Millennium aircraft, accompanied by comprehensive support. This support package includes a comprehensive training solution for pilots, loadmasters, and technicians, the provision of spare parts, and the implementation of a robust entry-into-operation plan. Embraer plans to have a dedicated local presence to assist in the initial stages of C-390 operations in the Czech Republic.
With this announcement, the Czech Republic joins the ranks of nations that have chosen the C-390 Millennium, making it the sixth nation and the fourth NATO country in Europe to opt for this state-of-the-art aircraft. The C-390 Millennium is known for redefining military airlift capabilities, and its interoperability and multi-mission functionality have been strategically integrated into its design.
Having entered into active service with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, the C-390 has consistently demonstrated its capacity, reliability, and performance. The existing fleet of six C-390 aircraft has achieved an operational availability of approximately 80%, with a mission completion rate exceeding 99%, underscoring its exceptional productivity.
The Czech Republic’s involvement in the C-390 Millennium program signifies a strengthening of cooperation between Embraer and local industries. Czech company Aero Vodochody already serves as a strategic partner and supplier for the program, producing critical components for these advanced military aircraft.
Embraer’s C-390 Millennium is set to usher in a new era of airlift capabilities for the Czech Republic’s Armed Forces, underscoring the nation’s commitment to enhancing its defense and humanitarian assistance capabilities.
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