First Dutch C-390 Millenium Aircraft Now in Production

In Brazil, at the Gavião Peixoto Embraer establishment, production has begun on the first C-390 Millenium transport and in-flight refueling aircraft for the Koninklijke Luchtmach, the Royal Netherlands Air Force.

The order is part of a joint effort between the Netherlands and Austria for a total of nine aircraft, with five designated for the Koninklijke Luchtmach and the remaining four for the Luftstreitkräfte.

Millenium as a Replacement

In both air forces, the Millenium will respectively replace the C-130H and the C-130K Hercules, the latter of which served in the Royal Air Force until the late nineties.

Special Features of the C-390

The C-390, with its 26-ton payload capacity, 470 knots speed, and advanced avionics, stands as a versatile aircraft at the top of its class. Equipped with powerful IAE V2500-E5 engines, a spacious cargo bay with a rear ramp, and a rugged undercarriage, the Millenium is capable of undertaking challenging missions from unprepared or semi-prepared runways.

Wide Range of Missions

The C-390 Millennium can carry out a wide range of military and civilian missions, such as freight transport, personnel and vehicle transport, peacekeeping operations, special operations, humanitarian support, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, in-flight refueling, and disaster management.

Multi-mission Version Studies

Furthermore, Embraer has begun feasibility studies for a multi-mission version of the Millennium equipped with EO/IR suite and surveillance radar as well as air-to-surface weapon deployment capability, based on an agreement with the Brazilian Air Force (FAB).

Photo credit @Embraer