Embraer has signed its latest contract for the best-selling C-390 tactical transport aircraft: a joint deal for nine aircraft for NATO member states the Netherlands (5) and Austria (4).

“The C-390 enables both our air forces to conduct a wide range of military and humanitarian operations – a capability that is becoming increasingly important in a world where we face more threats,” said Vice Admiral Jan Willem Hartman, National Director of Armaments for the Netherlands.

“Together we are setting an example of the European cooperation that is needed in these uncertain times. I hope that many of our colleagues will follow suit and that this step can be continued,” he added.

“In challenging times, our two nations have joined forces,” says Major General Harald Vodosek, Austria’s national armaments director. “Our nations have almost identical requirements,” he adds, which allowed them to agree on a uniform configuration.

The Netherlands selected the C-390 in June 2022 as a replacement for its aging Lockheed Martin C-130Hs, while K-model Hercules operator Austria will follow in 2023. Their joint program will also include aspects such as training, support and MRO; including the use of a planned new facility to be located in the Netherlands.

During a well-attended signing ceremony at the Brazilian company’s chalet at the Farnborough Airshow on 22 July, Bosco da Costa Junior, CEO of Embraer Defence & Security, described the Dutch selection as “a turning point in the young history of the C-390”. He also praised the “daring and visionary spirit” of the company’s new customers in choosing the twinjet type.

Deliveries will begin in 2027. The Royal Netherlands Air Force fighter jets will receive the KC-390 tanker configuration, while Austria’s units will be capable of in-flight refueling.

“Rest assured that Embraer will not sit still for a minute (in its work) to exceed your expectations, with the highest levels of safety and quality,” said da Costa.

“They will approach Embraer as one customer. It is a win-win situation for both countries,” he notes.

The company is about to finalize a contract to supply the Czech Republic with two of this type. These are already in service with the air forces of Brazil and Portugal and are about to be delivered to Hungary. An order has also been placed for South Korea.

Embraer is also currently awaiting a decision from Sweden, as the newest NATO member considers the C-390 and C-130J as replacements for its aging Hercules aircraft.

“We are seeing increasing interest in the platform from all corners of the world,” says da Costa. “We strongly believe that this is just the beginning of our journey.”