First Embraer KC-390 Millennium enters into service in Portugal

Oct 20, 2023 - 12:02 pm

The first Embraer KC-390 Millennium to enter into service outside of Brazil has begun operations at the Portuguese Air Force’s Beja Air Base.

The aircraft integrates both the requirements set by the National Aeronautical Authority (AAN) of Portugal and includes standard NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) equipment. It is a joint effort between Embraer, OGMA, and FAP.

“The Portuguese Air Force is an Embraer’s strategic partner, having supported us since the beginning of the KC-390 Millenium’s internationalization,” said Walter Pinto Junior, COO of Embraer Defense and Security. “Embraer and the Portuguese Air Force will continue working together to advance our long-term projects for years to come.”

The multi-mission military tactical transport aircraft can carry 26 tons of payload and perform a wide range of missions such as transport and launch of cargo and troops, aeromedical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting and humanitarian missions, operating on temporary or unpaved runways

“The entry into service of this aircraft is significant for the Portuguese Air Force and Portugal, as it completes the development and production of a multi-value aircraft capable of the most demanding operational scenarios. The requirements set by the Portuguese Air Force have taken this aircraft to an even higher technological and capability level,” said Brigadier-General João Nogueira, president of the KC-390 Program Supervision and Monitoring Mission.

The aircraft also offers air-to-air refueling of several different fighter aircraft as well as other KC-390s using the underwing pods. This is a unique feature for this type of aircraft.