Location via proxy:   [ UP ]  
[Report a bug]   [Manage cookies]                
Jump to content

Embraer C-390 Millennium

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
(Redirected from C-390 Millennium)

C-390 Millennium
C-390 Millennium in flight
General information
TypeMedium-sized military transport aircraft
National originBrazil
ManufacturerEmbraer
StatusIn service
Primary usersBrazilian Air Force
Number built10[citation needed]
History
Manufactured2014–present
Introduction date2019[1]
First flight3 February 2015[2]

The Embraer C-390 Millennium is a medium-size, twin-engine, jet-powered military transport aircraft designed and produced by the Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. It is the heaviest aircraft the company has constructed to date.[3][4]

Work on the project began at Embraer during the mid-2000s, with early efforts centred around a conceptual derivative of the E190 jetliner of a similar size to the Lockheed C-130 Hercules. The company was keen to use turbofan jet engines, instead of turboprops. Support for the venture was forthcoming from both the Brazilian government and the Brazilian Air Force. In May 2008, the government invested R$800 million (US$440M) in the project's development. In April 2009, Embraer was issued a $1.5 billion contract for two prototypes. At the 2011 Paris Air Show, Embraer announced plans to launch a stretched version of the aircraft as a civilian freighter. Partnerships were promptly formed with various other aerospace companies on the programme, including FAdeA, ENAER, OGMA, and Boeing. A joint venture with Boeing was announced in November 2019, but quickly fell apart within six months. Major subcontractors in the aircraft's manufacturing include Aero Vodochody, BAE Systems, and Rockwell Collins.

On 3 February 2015, the first of two prototypes performed its maiden flight. On 4 September 2019, the first production aircraft was delivered to the Brazilian Air Force.[5] In November 2019, during the Dubai Airshow, Embraer announced the aircraft's new name for the global market, C-390 Millennium.[6][7] Several export customers for the C-390 have been secured, including the Portuguese Air Force, Hungarian Air Force, and the Royal Netherlands Air Force. The C-390 can be configured to perform various conventional operations such as troop, VIP and cargo transportation, and more specialised logistical operations such as aerial refuelling as a tanker. It can carry payloads of up to 26 t (57,000 lb), such as two fully-tracked M113 armored personnel carriers, one Boxer armoured vehicle, a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter, 74 litters with life-support equipment, up to 80 soldiers or 66 paratroopers with full gear, and loads of up to 42,000 lb (19 t) can be air dropped.

Development

[edit]

Studies

[edit]

In the early 2000s, the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer became interested in developing its own medium-sized transport aircraft. Its initial design study was based around a high-wing derivative of its existing E190 jetliner.[8] Between 2005 and 2007, it investigated the pairing of the wing and GE CF34 engine of the mature Embraer 190 (E190) with a cabin that was modified to function as a cargo hold, complete with a rear ramp, closed-loop fly-by-wire system, and synthetic vision.[9]

By 2006, Embraer was studying a military tactical transport design of a similar size to the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, to be powered by 17,000–22,000 lbf (75.6–98 kN) jet engines, such as the Pratt & Whitney PW6000 and Rolls-Royce BR715.[10] In April 2007, Embraer publicly stated that it was studying a medium-size airlifter. Referred to by the company designation C-390, this transport aircraft was said to incorporate many of the technological solutions present on the Embraer E-Jet series and feature a rear ramp for the loading and unloading of a wide range of cargo.[11]

In March 2008, the Brazilian government planned to invest about R$60 million (equivalent to US$33 million) in the aircraft's initial development. Simultaneously, the Brazilian Air Force was in the process of finalizing an initial purchase contract for between 22 and 30 aircraft, while Embraer was negotiating with possible partners on the programme.[12] Two months later, the Brazilian Congress released R$800 million (US$440M) to be invested in the project and fund the aircraft's development. Around this time, the media claimed that the aircraft would be operated by the Brazilian Air Force and the Army and Navy, and that there were unconfirmed sales to other government agencies in the works.[13]

Program launch

[edit]
The IAE V2500 turbofan was selected to power the C-390.

On 14 April 2009, Embraer was awarded with a $1.5 billion contract to develop and build two prototypes.[14][15] At the programme launch, the design was all-new in terms of its fuselage, wing, flight deck, and engine selection. The E-190's wing were dispensed with, partly due to its limited surface area. It was also stated that the aircraft would be the operational successor to the Brazilian Air Force's C-130 fleet. According to Embraer, the selected jet engine is sufficiently resilient to dust ingestion, whereas propeller tips close to the ground are susceptible to damage. Embraer also chose the IAE V2500 engine for its efficiency under normal conditions, rather than prioritising its performance under unusual conditions, such as on the Antonov An-32.[9]

In March 2010, Embraer drew up a development schedule, upon which the first prototype aircraft was scheduled to be delivered in late 2014.[16] In July 2010, at the Farnborough Airshow, the Brazilian Air Force announced its intent to order 28 C-390s, while Embraer announced an increase in the aircraft's cargo capacity to 21 t (46,000 lb).[3][17] At the 2011 Paris Air Show, Embraer announced plans to launch a stretched version of the C-390 focused on the civil market for freighters sometime around 2018. It estimated that the company would receive 200–250 orders over a 10-year period. To increase internal capacity, two plugs will be added fore and aft of the centre fuselage section, which would also provide a new side cargo door.[18]

In April 2011, Embraer estimated that 695 military transport aircraft worldwide would need to be replaced in the following decade.[19]

Partnerships

[edit]

In August 2010, the defence ministers of Chile and Brazil signed an agreement for the Chilean aircraft company ENAER to join the C-390 industry team.[20] That same month, Argentine Defence Minister Nilda Garré announced that Argentina would participate in the construction programme.[21] In September 2010, Colombia signed an agreement to participate in the C-390 programme.[22] On 10 September 2010, the defense minister of Portugal signed an intentions letter to join the programme.[23] In December 2011, Brazil and Portugal agreed to a defense partnership with Empresa de Engenharia Aeronáutica (EEA) for developing the engineering data for the KC-390's components, which will be manufactured by Embraer's Portuguese subsidiary OGMA.[24]

In April 2012, the American aerospace giant Boeing and Embraer signed a cooperation agreement.[25] Two months later, an agreement was signed by the two companies to collaborate on the development of the C-390, and possibly extending to sales as well.[26] In June 2013, Boeing agreed to market the C-390 in the US, UK, and Middle East, building on the June 2012 MoU.[27] In November 2019, it was announced that Boeing and Embraer were to form a new joint venture company to promote and develop new markets for the C-390 Millennium. This new company, Boeing Embraer – Defense, was to have its ownership divided between a 51% stake held by Embraer and 49% by Boeing. It was to begin operations following the granting of regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of closing conditions.[28] However, in April 2020, Boeing terminated the planned joint ventures with Embraer.[29]

Major subcontractors include Aero Vodochody for the rear fuselage section,[30] BAE Systems for the fly-by-wire primary flight control system,[31] ELEB for the landing gear,[32] OGMA, involved in the design and manufacturing of the sponsons, including the central fuselage,[33] and development of the landing gear, rear wing elevators, fuselage and part of the rudder with CEiiA,[34][35] with Rockwell Collins for the avionics, cargo handling and aerial delivery system.[36][37] International Aero Engines (IAE) supplies the V2500-E5 turbofans. Its use on the C-390 is its first military application.[38] Fábrica Argentina de Aviones supplies the tail cone, cargo door and landing gear doors.[39]

On 25 April 2023, in a joint announcement by Brazilian President Lula and the Prime Minister of Portugal, Costa stated that the KC-390 could be built or assembled in Portugal OGMA for European customers along with the new A-29N.[40]

Flight testing

[edit]
C-390 roll-out on 21 October 2014

It was decided to construct a pair of prototypes to participate in the test programme. On 21 October 2014, the first prototype (PT-ZNF) rolled out from the Embraer subsidiary plant, Embraer Defense and Security, at Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo.[41][42] On 3 February 2015, the first prototype performed its maiden flight.[2]

In July 2015, the company announced a two-year delay in the flight test program, citing the devaluation of the Brazilian currency and government spending cuts. However, a second test flight took place at Gavião Peixoto on 26 October 2015.[43][44] By February 2016, the first prototype had logged more than 100 hours of flight.[45] Following the resumption of flight-testing, the manufacturer expected to certify the C-390 sometime in 2017 and begin deliveries in 2018. The eight months between test flights were used to conduct ground vibration tests to validate aeroelastic models, as well as avionics, mission, landing gear and electric and hydraulic flight control system testing.[46] Embraer reported good availability for testing, sometimes conducting two flights per day. The aircraft was tested to the limits of speed, Mach number, and altitude, as well as all slats, flaps and landing gear positions.[46]

In March 2016, the second prototype (PT-ZNJ) was completed. It conducted its first flight in April 2016.[47][48][49] By then, Richard Aboulafia's Teal Group estimated the C-390's price to be around $50–55 million, which was $15 million below that of the competing Hercules.[50]

Refueling certification test

On 17 October 2017, the first prototype (PT-ZNF) made an uncommanded descent from 20,000 ft to 3,100 ft at 4,500 ft/min.[51] In December 2017, as the two prototypes accumulated over 1,500 flight hours and laboratory testing over 40,000 hours, initial operating capability was reached, while full operational capability was expected in 2018.[52] On 5 May 2018, the first prototype (PT-ZNF) ran off the runway during a ground test in Gaviao Peixoto, Brazil.[53][51] The first production C-390, which was the third aircraft to be built including the prototypes, made its first flight on 6 October 2018.[54]

On 23 October 2018, the C-390 was issued with Brazilian civil type certification. By this point, the aircraft has cumulatively attained 1,900 flight hours during testing, while the first production aircraft was set to be delivered to the Brazilian Air Force in the first half of 2019 and should obtain military certification by the end of 2019.[55] The third aircraft (PT-ZNG), originally slated for the first delivery, was instead redirected towards the certification efforts.[8]

In February 2021, Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force dispatched a single KC-390 to the US to undergo testing under extreme cold conditions.[56]

Full operational capability

[edit]

In the first quarter of 2023, the Brazilian Air Force fleet of C-390 had accumulated more than 8,000 flight hours, having participated in aviation fairs and carried out missions on all continents including Antarctica, where C-390 from the Fat Squadron (1st/1st GT) performed two air resupply missions for the Brazilian Comandante Ferraz Antarctic Station. At the end of March 2023, the aircraft received the Final Type Certificate, reaching full operational capability (FOC).[57][58]

Design

[edit]

The Embraer C-390 Millennium is a mid-sized utility transport aircraft. Its design permits flexible operations. Both the internal and external configuration of the aircraft can be rapidly interchanged to accommodate different mission roles due the modular design adopted since the aircraft concept for all missions systems.[59] It incorporates modern technology and mission software to aid crews in carrying out operations.[60] The cockpit has head-up displays for the enhanced vision system with four cameras and Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion commercial avionics.[61] The C-390 can provide inflight refueling to other aircraft through two wing-mounted probe and drogue pods from Cobham plc. These can deliver fuel at up to 1,500 L (400 US gal) per minute from a 35 t (77,000 lb) total fuel capacity, between 120 and 300 kn (220 and 560 km/h) and from 2,000 to 32,000 ft (610 to 9,750 m).[8][62]

The aircraft is powered by a pair of IAE V2500-E5 turbofan engines, which are mounted forward on the high wing. This wing features an anhedral angle, slats, and High-lift devices able to deflect up to 40°. The landing gear is equipped with low-pressure tires, two 5.9 bar (85 psi) on the nose and four 7.2 bar (105 psi) on either side bogies, which facilitate the aircraft's use upon soft, unpaved ground, such as austere airstrips, or damaged runways.[63] The C-390 has a cruising speed of Mach 0.8 which, according to Embraer, enables payloads to be transported faster than any other airplane in the medium airlift market.[60] It can attain a controlled descend rate of 9,000 ft/min (2,700 m/min) at its 300 kn (560 km/h) maximum IAS through a combination of extended slats, idle thrust, and flight spoilers extended to 40°. When its flaps are fully deployed at 40 degrees, it has a stall speed of 104 kn (193 km/h) IAS.[8]

C-390 glass cockpit preparing for flight

The aircraft is equipped with fully fly-by-wire flight controls combined with active sidesticks, which reduces the crew's workload over conventional counterparts and permits load factors up to 3g.[8][64] An autothrottle system is installed.[65] The navigation systems, which were largely supplied by Thales Group, include an Inertial Navigation System (INS), GPS, and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) transponder.[66] It is fitted with SELEX Galileo's Gabbiano tactical radar, capable of GMTI, SAR, ISAR, SART modes amongst others.[67][68] For self-defense purposes, an Elbit Systems-supplied directional infrared countermeasures suite is typically installed.[69] An integrated onboard maintenance system actively monitors the health of the overall aircraft and various subsystems at all times.[60]

The hold of the C-390 has a length of 18.5 m (61 ft), width of 3.45 m (11.3 ft), and height of 2.95 m (9 ft 8 in), and is primarily accessed via a large rear ramp built into the tail. It can carry payloads of up to 26 t (57,000 lb). This allows for the carriage of either two fully-tracked M113 armored personnel carriers, one Boxer or Brazilian VBTP-MR Guarani wheeled armoured vehicle, a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter, 74 litters with life-support equipment, up to 80 soldiers or 66 paratroopers with full gear. Loads of up to 42,000 lb (19 t) can be air dropped. A cargo handling and aerial delivery system, produced by DRS Defense Solutions, is incorporated.[70] Typical amenities present in the hold include a galley, an accessibility-friendly toilet, automatic temperature control, and noise/vibration mitigation measures. Embraer have stated that considerable attention was paid to passenger comfort.[60]

Operational history

[edit]

Brazil

[edit]
Special Forces in operational free-jump training on a C-390

In 2014, the Brazilian government ordered 28 C-390s.[71] There was the stated intention of progressively replacing the Brazilian Air Force's existing cargo aircraft fleet with the type, including its C-130s.[72] The first C-390 was delivered to the Brazilian Air Force on 4 September 2019.[73] The fleet of C-390s will be operated from Anápolis Air Force Base by the 1st Troop Transportation Group (1º GTT) Zeus and in Rio de Janeiro by the 1st/1st GT Gordo.[74]

In the first 3.5 years of operation, the C-390 in the FAB totaled more than 8,200 flight hours with 6,000 flights, the technical availability was around 80% and the mission completion rate was 99.5%, according to Embraer data and the FAB.[75]

In January 2021, in the middle of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Brazilian city of Manaus, located in the interior of the Amazon rainforest, was left with an overburdened medical service needing medical supplies and help with transferring patients. A major operation was set up by the Brazilian air force, mobilizing all its available transport aviation. The C-390 played a key role in this operation, carrying out an airlift mission connecting the city of Manaus to the rest of the country, taking hospital supplies and removing hundreds of patients from an overloaded Manaus.[76][77]

Following the 2020 Beirut explosion, a C-390 and an Embraer 190 VC-2 were sent with around six tons of medicines, food and health equipment to provide emergency care. It was the first international mission of the aircraft in FAB service.[78][79]

In February 2021, during Operational Exercise "Culminating", in Louisiana, United States, the KC-390 conducted joint flights with US Air Force C-17 and C-130 airlifters. The combined force launched 4,000 paratroopers in a single night jump.[80] In 2021, after the Haiti earthquake, the C-390 was dispatched to Haiti with around eleven tons of medicine and specialized firefighting equipment for search and rescue in collapsed structures, search dogs and doctors.[81]

Arrival of Brazilians and foreigners from Ukraine during the Operation Repatriation, March 2022

A single C-390 flew to Ushuaia carrying spare parts in support of a FAB C-130 that was on an Antarctic operation. In the Russian-Ukrainian conflict of 2022, a KC-390 and a VC-99B Legacy were sent with a mission to rescue Brazilian nationals and other countries. The mission also brought around 12 tons of humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The mission rescued national, Ukrainian, Argentine and Colombian citizens, all of whom were taken to Brazil.[82][83]

In February 2022, the Brazilian government and Embraer agreed to downsize the former's order for C-390s to 22, which was a reduction from the original order for 28 aircraft. This measure, which was taken as a financial austerity measure due to COVID-19, was less severe than early suggestions for as few as 15. At this point, four C-390s were in FAB service.[84][85]

As of June 2022, a C-390 from the Fat Squadron (1st/1st GT) of the FAB participated for the first time in the Brazilian Antarctic Campaign, dropping supply loads for the Comandante Ferraz Antarctic Station.[57] The C-390 participated in 2022 in Operation Cooperation VII in Colombia, operating on runways of up to 2,100 meters, at altitudes simulating missions of humanitarian assistance and paratrooper launches.[citation needed]

In 2023, aircraft participated in Operation Surucucu delivering supplies by air to the indigenous Yanomami peoples who live between the Orinoco and Amazon rivers. In 2023, they also participated in the Salitre IV exercise, in Chile, where a KC-390 and six F-5s carried out 50 combat missions with the tanker aircraft performing the first combat refueling in an international mission.[75]

Portugal

[edit]
A Portuguese Air Force C-390

In February 2010, Embraer proposed the C-390 to the Portuguese Ministry of Defense as a replacement option for the Portuguese Air Force (FAP)'s aging fleet of C-130s.[86] In July 2017, the Portuguese government authorized the purchase of five C-390 airlifters, with the option for a sixth.[87] The deal includes five C-390s and a flight simulator for pilot training, was reportedly valued at €827 million. The first aircraft was delivered to Portugal in February 2023 and achieved operational status in October 2023.[88] The final C-390 is scheduled to be delivered by February 2027.[89]

Among its first missions in the Portuguese Air Force in October 2023, the C-390 transported military personnel and cargo to the Canary Islands, Spain, in support of the multinational Spanish-led exercise Ocean Sky 2023. It then progressed to the United States where it picked up one of the Black Hawk helicopters procured by Portugal. On its return flight, it crossed the Atlantic Ocean on a direct flight from Providence, Rhode Island to Ovar.[90]

Hungary

[edit]

In November 2020, almost six months after the Hungarian Air Force retired its last Soviet-era An-26 military cargo plane, Hungary signed an order for two KC-390s, along with full training, support and maintenance.[91] The configurations that the Hungarian Defence Forces ordered include the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) kit, enabling Hungary to provide intensive care medicine in humanitarian missions abroad.[92]

On 19 November 2021, Embraer started assembly of the first Hungarian KC-390 at its Gavião Peixoto facility. On 12 April 2024, the first C-390 was delivered to the Hungarian Air Force, landing at Kecskemét Air Base.[93] Before returning to Brazil, it underwent a three-week testing period and received NATO-standard communication equipment. The first aircraft was delivered to Kecskemét Airbase on 5 September 2024.[citation needed]

Netherlands

[edit]

In June 2022 the Netherlands Ministry of Defense announced that it had found a successor to the Royal Netherlands Air Force's (RNLAF) C-130H Hercules, which were becoming increasingly maintenance-hungry due to their advanced age. Instead of being phased out by 2031, their replacement would begin in 2026. As suggested through operational experiences in Kabul in the summer of 2021 and events along NATO's eastern flank in the spring of 2022, an increased need for the transport mission had been identified. Furthermore, the C-390 Millennium was found to surpass the requirements. Instead of the anticipated four aircraft, the RNLAF expects to receive five aircraft from 2026 onwards, allowing annual flight hours to rise from the required 2,400 to 4,000.[94][95]

Austria

[edit]

In September 2023, Austrian Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner announced the C-390 as the successor to the Austrian Air Force's C-130 Hercules, stating that "Embraer's aircraft system is the only one in the 20 ton class that meets all our requirements."[96] The order was confirmed at the Farnborough Airshow 2024 for four units. Delivery are scheduled to begin in 2027 and conclude by 2030 according to the Brazilian manufacturer Embraer.[citation needed]

South Korea

[edit]

In December 2023, the South Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) decided to introduce three KC-390s by 2026, with a budget of KRW 710 billion (US$540M). A DAPA official explained that the reason for choosing the C-390 was that there was no significant difference in cost and performance compared to other competitors such as Lockheed Martin and Airbus, but there was a meaningful difference in contract terms such as offset requirements and allowing South Korean companies to participate in production.[97][98][99]

Marketing and potential orders

[edit]
Embraer C-390 Millennium at Aero India 2023

The C-390 has been marketed as a jet-powered alternative to the Lockheed C-130. In May 2023, the commander of the Brazilian Air Force, Brigadier Marcelo Kanitz Damasceno, pointed to Austria, the Czech Republic, Egypt, India, Rwanda, South Africa, South Korea, and Sweden as potential buyers for the KC-390.[100]

  • Angola: The National Air Force of Angola mentioned ordering four C-390s to replace its Antonov An-12 and other transport aircraft during a visit of the Brazilian president Lula in August 2023.[101][102]
  • Colombia: The Colombian Aerospace Force is in discussion for ordering up to 12 C-390s, as of August 2023.[103][104]
  • Egypt: Following collaboration agreements between Embraer and Egypt, there is a hope for a purchase of the C-390 for the Egyptian Air Force.[102][104][105]
  • Greece: The Hellenic Air Force has a need to replace the C-130H. Potential successors are second hand C-130J, or C-390, with 6 aircraft being considered.[102] It evaluated the C-390 in November 2023 as a potential replacement for the ageing C-130s in service.[106]
  • India: In September 2023, it was reported that India is interested in procuring up to 40 units. In February 2024, Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the objective of jointly fulfilling the acquisition of the C-390 aircraft by the Indian Air Force in its upcoming Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) procurement project.[107] Later they signed another with local giant Mahindra group to explore the potential to turn India into a future hub of the medium transport aircraft C-390 for the region. The MoU was signed at the Embassy of Brazil in New Delhi in February 2024.[108][109] In September 2024, Embraer proposed to setup an assembly line in India for C-390 aircraft in partnership with Mahindra group.[110]
  • Rwanda: The Rwandan Air Force is cited as a potential client for two C-390s.[102]
  • South Africa: The South African Air Force is in discussion for six C-390s as of September 2023.[102][104]
  • Sweden: The Swedish Air Force is in discussion as of September 2023 with a possible order for 3, 4 or 6 aircraft under consideration, both negotiations with the possibility of exchange between defence systems, with more Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters for the Brazilian Air Force.[102][104][111][112][113][114]

BAE Systems signed an agreement with Embraer to market the C-390 to Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates.[115]

In November 2023, it was reported that Embraer and Saudi Arabia's SAMI have partnered to pitch the C-390 transport to the Saudi Arabian government, including the potential for local assembly and support.[116]

Morocco has received one KC-390 Millennium for testing purposes, pending a potential acquisition agreement between Morocco and Brazil.[117]

In April 2024, Embraer and Brazilian postal company Correios signed a Memorandum of Understanding focusing on air cargo transport. The partnership includes a plan to evaluate the C-390 as a civilian cargo aircraft for Correios.[118]

Operators

[edit]
C-390 orders as of December 2023

Current operators

[edit]
 Brazil
Brazilian Air Force – 19 C-390 ordered,[119][73] 7 delivered.[120][121]
1st Troop Transportation Group Zeus[74][122]
1st Squadron of the 1st Transportation Group (1°/1°GT) Gordo[123]
 Hungary
Hungarian Air Force – 2 C-390s ordered in 2020,[124] 1 delivered in September 2024. These aircraft will be flown by Airlift Squadron "Teve" at Kecskemét Airbase.[125][126]
 Portugal
Portuguese Air Force – 5 C-390 ordered in 2019 to replace its C-130s.[127] The first aircraft was delivered on 16 October 2022, at Beja Airbase,[128] and entered service in October 2023.[88] The second aircraft was delivered in June 2024.[129]

Future operators

[edit]
 Austria
Austrian Air Force – four C-390 Millenniums ordered in 2023 to replace the aging C-130K, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026.[130][131]
 Czech Republic
Czech Air Force – two C-390s selected in October 2023 for its future aerial refueling and fixed-wing medium-lift transport requirements.[132][133] Contract signed on 25 October 2024.[134]
 Netherlands
Royal Netherlands Air Force – selected the C-390 in 2022 with five airlifters ordered to replace its C-130H, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026.[135][136]
 South Korea
Republic of Korea Air Force – three C-390s ordered in 2023, to be introduced by 2026.[137][98][99]

Specifications (C-390 Millennium)

[edit]
The approximate operating radius with different load weights.

Data from Aviation Week,[8] Embraer[138]

General characteristics

  • Crew: Three (two pilots, one loadmaster)
  • Capacity: 26,000 kg (57,000 lb) / 80 troops / 74 stretchers and 8 attendants / 66 paratroopers / 7 463L master pallets / 6 463L master pallets and 36 troops
  • Length: 35.2 m (115 ft 6 in)
  • Wingspan: 35.05 m (115 ft 0 in)
  • Height: 11.84 m (38 ft 10 in)
  • Max takeoff weight: 86,999 kg (191,800 lb)
  • Fuel capacity: 23,000 kg (50,700 lb) – 35,000 kg (77,160 lb) with 3 aux. fuel tanks
  • Useful lift: 26,000 kg (57,320 lb)
  • Hold length × height × width: 18.5 m × 3.0 m × 3.4 m (60.6 ft × 9.8 ft × 11.3 ft)
  • Powerplant: 2 × IAE V2500-E5 turbofan, 139.4 kN (31,330 lbf) thrust each

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 988 km/h (614 mph, 533 kn)
  • Cruise speed: 870 km/h (540 mph, 470 kn) Mach 0.8
  • Stall speed: 193 km/h (120 mph, 104 kn) IAS
  • Range: 5,020 km (3,120 mi, 2,710 nmi) with 14,000 kg (31,000 lb) payload
    • 2,720 km (1,470 nmi; 1,690 mi) with 23,000 kg (51,000 lb) payload
    • 2,000 km (1,080 nmi; 1,240 mi) with 26,000 kg (57,000 lb) payload
  • Ferry range: 6,240 km (3,880 mi, 3,370 nmi) – 8,460 km (4,570 nmi; 5,260 mi) max. with aux. fuel tanks
  • Service ceiling: 11,000 m (36,000 ft)

Armament

  • Hardpoints: 3 with a capacity of POD Optical / IR Rafael Litening II / IFR Cobham 900E

Avionics

  • Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion
Systems and equipment
  • RWR / chaff & flare (self-defense systems)
  • DIRCM - Directional Infrared Countermeasures (self-defense systems)
  • In-flight refueling system
  • Dual HUD system
  • Cabin lighting compatible with night vision systems
  • CCDP - Continuously Computed Drop Point, an automated, accurate drop point calculation system[139]
  • CDS - Container Delivery System[140]
  • LVAD - Low Velocity Airdrop Delivery[140]
  • EEPGS – Emergency Electric Power Generator System (type RAT or Ram Air Turbine)

See also

[edit]

Related development

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Embraer entrega primeiro avião multimissão KC-390 à Força Aérea Brasileira". Poder Aéreo (in Portuguese). 4 September 2019.
  2. ^ a b Parsons, Dan (3 February 2015). "Embraer KC-390 takes maiden flight". Flightglobal. Washington, DC. Retrieved 25 May 2016.
  3. ^ a b "FAB and Embraer Announce Plan for KC 390 Initial Acquisition" (Press release). São José dos Campos: Embraer. 21 July 2010. Retrieved 25 May 2016.
  4. ^ "Inside Embraer's KC-390 Tanker/Transport". Aviation Week. 25 February 2011. Archived from the original on 8 October 2012.
  5. ^ O'Connor, Kate (5 September 2019). "Embraer Delivers First KC-390". Avweb. Archived from the original on 6 September 2019. Retrieved 6 September 2019.
  6. ^ "Embraer divulga nome e designação de seu avião de transporte multimissão: C-390 Millennium". Embraer. 18 November 2019.
  7. ^ "Boeing-Embraer joint venture: KC-390 becomes C-390 Millennium". Aerotime Hub. 18 November 2019.
  8. ^ a b c d e f Wuerfel, Tim (19 April 2019). "Pilot Report: Putting Embraer's KC-390 Through Its Paces". Aviation Week & Space Technology.
  9. ^ a b Trimble, Stephen (8 July 2014). "Redesign transforms KC-390 into all-new market threat". Flightglobal. Retrieved 16 August 2015.
  10. ^ Norris, Guy (13 November 2006). "Embraer studies C-130-sized tactical airlifter". Flightglobal. Los Angeles. Retrieved 25 May 2016.
  11. ^ Warwick, Graham (19 April 2007). "Embraer reveals details of C-390 military airlifter". Flightglobal. Retrieved 11 September 2009.
  12. ^ "Governo investirá no cargueiro C-390 da Embraer" [Government will invest in Embraer's C-390 cargo aircraft]. Defesa Brasil (in Portuguese). Archived from the original on 12 March 2009.
  13. ^ "Câmara aprova verba de R$800 milhões para cargueiro militar" [Chamber approves R$800 million budget for military cargo aircraft]. Base Militar (in Portuguese). 7 November 2007. Retrieved 4 June 2012.
  14. ^ "Defesa salva de cortes plano de avião cargueiro" [Defence saves cargo aircraft plan from cuts]. Estadão (in Portuguese). O Estado de S Paulo. 21 August 2011. Archived from the original on 26 October 2014. Retrieved 29 May 2012.
  15. ^ Trimble, Stephen (14 April 2009). "Brazilian Air Force signs deal launching Embraer KC-390 tanker-transport". Flightglobal. Washington DC. Retrieved 25 May 2016.
  16. ^ Trimble, Stephen (13 May 2010). "Embraer reveals KC-390 schedule, design changes". Flightglobal. Washington DC. Retrieved 14 May 2010.
  17. ^ Wall, Robert (21 July 2010). "KC-390 advances, F-X2 doesn't". Aviation Week. Archived from the original on 29 September 2012. Retrieved 26 May 2016.
  18. ^ Trimble, Stephen (21 June 2011). "Embraer reveals plan for KC-390 civil stretch". Flightglobal. Paris. Retrieved 12 March 2012.
  19. ^ "Argentina joins manufacturing of Brazil's KC 390 jet powered military transport". MercoPress. 19 April 2011.
  20. ^ "Embraer Reveals Discussions on a Partnership with Chilean Aeronautics Industry for the KC-390" (Press release). Embraer. 24 August 2010. Archived from the original on 20 April 2019. Retrieved 20 April 2019.
  21. ^ "Garré brindó una charla a suboficiales de base naval de Mar del Plata" (in Spanish). República Argentina – Ministerio de Defensa. 10 August 2010. Archived from the original on 18 July 2011.
  22. ^ Croft, John (1 September 2010). "Colombia formalises Embraer KC-390 interest". Flightglobal.
  23. ^ "Defence Ministers of Portugal and Brazil Sign Memorandum of Understanding on the KC-390" (Press release). defense-aerospace.com. 10 September 2010. Archived from the original on 11 September 2010. Retrieved 12 September 2010.
  24. ^ "Brazil and Portugal Sign Defense Partnership for KC-390 Program" (Press release). Embraer. 14 December 2011.
  25. ^ "Boeing and Embraer Sign Agreement for Broad Business Cooperation to Benefit Customers and Support Industry Growth" (Press release). Washington DC: Boeing. 9 April 2012.
  26. ^ "Boeing and Embraer Sign Agreement to Collaborate on KC-390 Program" (Press release). São Paulo: Boeing. 26 June 2012.
  27. ^ "Embraer's Multinational KC-390 Tactical Air Transport Program". Defense Industry Daily. 22 October 2014.
  28. ^ "Boeing Embraer - Defense Joint Venture to Develop New Markets for the C-390 Millennium" (Press release). Boeing. 18 November 2019.
  29. ^ "Boeing Terminates Agreement to Establish Joint Ventures with Embraer" (Press release). Boeing. 25 April 2020.
  30. ^ Trimble, Stephen (14 April 2011). "Embraer signs two new suppliers for KC-390". Flightglobal. Rio de Janeiro.
  31. ^ "BAE Systems selected for Embraer KC-390 primary flight control system" (Press release). BAE Systems. 27 July 2011.
  32. ^ "KC-390 cargo jet will have landing gear by ELEB" (Press release). Embraer. 8 April 2011.
  33. ^ Carregueiro, Nuno (4 July 2016). "KC-390. O maior projecto aeronáutico português" [KC-390. The largest Portuguese aeronautical project]. Jornal de Notícias (in Portuguese). Lisbon.
  34. ^ "KC390: O maior projecto aeronáutico português" [KC 390: The largest Portuguese aeronautical project]. EuroDefense Portugal (in Portuguese). Lisbon. 4 July 2016.
  35. ^ "OGMA produziu primeiro painel do KC-390 para entregar à Força Aérea". Jornal de Notícias. Lisbon. 23 January 2020.
  36. ^ "Embraer selects Rockwell Collins advanced avionics system for Brazilian Air Force KC-390 fleet" (Press release). Rockwell Collins. 4 May 2011.
  37. ^ "Embraer selects Rockwell Collins to provide KC-390 Cargo Handling and Aerial Delivery Control System" (Press release). São José dos Campos: Rockwell Collins. 11 November 2015.
  38. ^ Trimble, Stephen (26 July 2011). "IAE steps into military market with KC-390 win". Flightglobal. Washington DC.
  39. ^ "Para Rossi, es un "hito histórico" la asociación de Argentina con Embraer en la frabricación de un nuevo avión militar". Télam. 21 October 2014.
  40. ^ "Brasil e Portugal firmam acordo para fabricar avião Super Tucano". Agência Brasil. 24 April 2023. Retrieved 30 April 2023.
  41. ^ Bianconi, César; Haynes, Brad (21 October 2014). "Embraer apresenta protótipo de cargueiro KC-390 e espera acelerar vendas". Reuters (in Portuguese). Archived from the original on 24 October 2014. Retrieved 21 October 2014.
  42. ^ "EMBRAER Rolls Out KC-390 Military Airlift". DefesaNet. 21 October 2014. Retrieved 21 October 2014.
  43. ^ Carey, Bill (8 November 2015). "Embraer's KC-390 Returns to Flight Test". AINonline. Retrieved 22 March 2016.
  44. ^ Trimble, Stephen (30 July 2015). "Embraer announces two-year delay for KC-390". Flightglobal.
  45. ^ "KC-390 já ultrapassou a marca de 100 horas de voo" (in Portuguese). Defesanet. 18 February 2016.
  46. ^ a b Alcock, Charles (17 February 2016). "Embraer's KC-390 Returns to Flight Test". AINonline. Archived from the original on 21 March 2016. Retrieved 22 March 2016.
  47. ^ "Embraer conclui o segundo protótipo do cargueiro militar KC-390" (in Portuguese). Defesanet. 15 March 2016.
  48. ^ "KC-390's Flight Test Campaign Progresses" (PDF). Embraer Defense & Security. Retrieved 14 July 2016.
  49. ^ KC-390 Flight Campaign Status (Motion picture). Embraer Defense & Security. 2016.
  50. ^ Patterson, Thom (20 July 2017). "Brazilian aircraft takes on an American military icon". CNNMoney.
  51. ^ a b Ranter, Harro. "ASN Aircraft accident Embraer KC-390 PT-ZNF Gavião Peixoto-Embraer Unidade Airport, SP". aviation-safety.net.
  52. ^ Trimble, Stephen (20 December 2017). "Embraer moves closer to KC-390 delivery with IOC declaration". Flightglobal.
  53. ^ "Embraer reports KC-390 runway excursion in Gaviao Peixoto". Flightglobal. 5 May 2018.
  54. ^ "First Production KC-390 Takes to the Air". AIN online. 10 October 2018.
  55. ^ Reim, Garrett (24 October 2018). "Embraer KC-390 receives Brazilian type certification". Flight international.
  56. ^ "Brazilian Air Force and Embraer test KC-390 Millennium in extreme cold". airrecognition.com. February 2021.
  57. ^ a b "KC-390 realiza primeira missão real na Antártica". aeromagazine.uol.com.br. 1 July 2022.
  58. ^ "Embraer C-390 Millennium recebe Certificado de Tipo Final, alcançando a Capacidade Operacional Completa (FOC)". aereo.jor.br. 3 April 2023.
  59. ^ missions systems.
  60. ^ a b c d "C-390 Millennium. The New Generation Airlifter, For Today's World". Aviation Week & Space Technology. 30 March 2022.
  61. ^ "Embraer selects Rockwell Collins advanced avionics system for Brazilian Air Force KC-390 fleet". Rockwell Collins. 5 May 2011. Retrieved 12 March 2012.
  62. ^ "Cobham Selected by Embraer Defense and Security to Supply the Aerial Refuelling Receiver Probe for the KC 390 Tanker Aircraft" (PDF). Cobham. 7 December 2012. Archived from the original (PDF) on 23 September 2015. Retrieved 12 March 2012.
  63. ^ "Embraer Defense and Security Selects Messier-Bugatti-Dowty for KC-390 Military Transport Jet". Embraer. 23 June 2011. Retrieved 30 May 2012.
  64. ^ "Goodrich Selected for Additional Products on Embraer's Defense and Security KC-390 Military Transport Aircraft". Goodrich. 7 May 2012. Archived from the original on 9 July 2012. Retrieved 7 May 2012.
  65. ^ "Embraer Defense and Security selects Esterline for KC-390 Program". Embraer. 21 June 2011. Retrieved 12 March 2012.
  66. ^ "Thales new generation Inertial Navigation System and GPS selected by Embraer Defense and Security for the KC-390". Archived 24 May 2012 at the Wayback Machine Thales Group, 4 May 2012. Retrieved: 4 May 2012.
  67. ^ "Embraer Defense & Security selects SELEX Galileo to supply Gabbiano radar for the new KC-390 tactical transport programme" (PDF). SELEX Galileo. 12 September 2011. Retrieved 29 May 2012.
  68. ^ "Gabbiano Surveillance Radar Family" (PDF). Selex Galileo. Retrieved 29 May 2012.
  69. ^ "Elbit Systems' Brazilian Subsidiary, AEL, to Provide EMBRAER with Advanced Systems for the KC-390 Program". Elbit Systems. 26 October 2012. Archived from the original on 9 July 2012. Retrieved 12 March 2012.
  70. ^ "DRS Defense Solutions to Provide Cargo Handling and Aerial Delivery Systems for Embraer KC-390 Military Transport Aircraft". DRS Technologies. 22 March 2011. Archived from the original on 13 July 2012. Retrieved 2 May 2012.
  71. ^ "FAB anuncia compra menor de cargueiros da Embraer; empresa diz que buscará 'medidas legais'". G1. Globo. 12 November 2021.
  72. ^ "Embraer delivers first KC-390 to the brazilian air force". Aerotime. 5 September 2019. Retrieved 29 January 2021.
  73. ^ a b Reim, Garrett (4 September 2019). "Brazilian air force receives first Embraer KC-390". Flightglobal.
  74. ^ a b "KC-390 - FAB recebe quarta aeronave KC-390 Millennium". Defesanet. 20 December 2020. Retrieved 13 April 2021.
  75. ^ a b "Embraer strongly pushes its C-390 Millenium on the international market". European Defense Review. 28 April 2023. Retrieved 30 April 2023.
  76. ^ "KC-390 transports more than 8 tons of equipment to Manaus". defesanet.com.br. 14 January 2021. Retrieved 29 January 2021.
  77. ^ "KC-390 flies on a new mission against the COVID-19 crisis in Manaus". Aeroin.net. 14 January 2021.
  78. ^ "FAB presta assistência humanitária à República Libanesa". fab.mil.br. 12 August 2020.
  79. ^ Morrison, Murdo (7 March 2022). "C-390 gaining credibility in Gulf, says Embraer's Schneider". flightglobal.com.
  80. ^ "KC-390 realiza lançamento de paraquedistas em treinamento com C-17 e C-130 da USAF". fab.mil.br. 3 February 2021.
  81. ^ "KC-390 Millennium decola com ajuda humanitária para o Haiti". FAB. 22 August 2021.
  82. ^ "Em aviões da FAB, brasileiros e estrangeiros vindos da Ucrânia chegam ao Brasil". FAB. 10 March 2022.
  83. ^ Hemmerdinger, Jon (6 June 2022). "Embraer sees heightened C-390 demand amid geopolitical tensions". Flightglobal.
  84. ^ Hoyle, Craig (10 February 2022). "Embraer, Brazilian air force agree six-unit cut to C-390 contract". Flightglobal.
  85. ^ Barreira, Victor (17 November 2021). "Brazilian Air Force reduces KC/C-390 buy". Jane's.
  86. ^ "Reequipamento das FA: Portugal pondera comprar avião militar brasileiro". Sol. 23 February 2010.[permanent dead link]
  87. ^ Lusa, Agência (27 July 2017). "Governo autoriza compra de cinco aeronaves militares KC-390 também para combater incêndios". Observador.
  88. ^ a b "Portugal puts first NATO-standard C-390 transport into service".
  89. ^ "Portugal to buy five Embraer military planes for 827 million euros". Reuters. 11 July 2019.
  90. ^ "Portugal conducts first force projection with new KC-390 transport aircraft". Defence Industry Europe. 26 October 2023.
  91. ^ "Hungarian air force to get two Embraer KC-390 Millennium multirole air tankers". airrecognition.com. 17 November 2020. Retrieved 29 January 2021.
  92. ^ "Hungary Signs Contract For Acquisition of Two Multi-Mission KC-390 Millennium Airlifters". embraer.com. 17 November 2020. Retrieved 29 January 2021.
  93. ^ "Embraer begins production of the first KC-390 Millennium for Hungary". airrecognition.com. November 2021.
  94. ^ "Netherlands Selects C-390 As Hercules Replacement". aviationweek.com. June 2022.
  95. ^ Defensie, Ministerie van (16 June 2022). "Defensie vindt opvolger voor C-130 Hercules - Nieuwsbericht". defensie.nl (in Dutch). Retrieved 16 June 2022.
  96. ^ "Entscheidung über C-130 "Hercules"-Nachfolge ist gefallen". bundesheer.at. 20 September 2023.
  97. ^ "South Korea selects the Embraer C-390 Millennium". Embraer. 4 December 2023. Archived from the original on 5 December 2023. Retrieved 5 December 2023.
  98. ^ a b Jung Chung-sin (4 December 2023). "브라질 수송기, 한국 군용기 시장 첫 진출…엠브라에르 KC-390 '깜짝 선정'". Munhwa Ilbo. Archived from the original on 4 December 2023. Retrieved 4 December 2023.
  99. ^ a b Kim Duk-hoon (4 December 2023). "군 대형수송기 2차 기종에 미국산 아닌 브라질산 '선정'". Korean Broadcasting System. Archived from the original on 4 December 2023. Retrieved 4 December 2023.
  100. ^ "Brazil sees wide opportunities for KC-390 airlifter". Jane's. 10 May 2023.
  101. ^ Meier, Ricardo (28 August 2023). "Angola may acquire four Embraer KC-390s, says Brazilian government". Air Data News. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  102. ^ a b c d e f Meier, Ricardo (1 October 2023). "How many KC-390s can Embraer sell to potential interested countries?". Air Data News. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  103. ^ Vinholes, Thiago (17 April 2023). "Colombia evaluates purchase of Embraer KC-390, says Brazilian government". Air Data News. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  104. ^ a b c d Vinholes, Thiago (19 May 2023). "Eight countries are negotiating the acquisition of the KC-390, according to the commander of the Brazilian Air Force". Air Data News. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  105. ^ "EGYPT: Embraer hopes to profit from Cairo-Brasilia rapprochement - 27/05/2022". Africa Intelligence. 27 May 2022. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  106. ^ "Hellenic Air Force meets with Embraer again to discuss the C-390 Millennium". airdatanews.com. Air Data News. 29 November 2023. Retrieved 3 December 2023.
  107. ^ Embraer and Mahindra announce collaboration on the C-390 Millennium Medium Transport Aircraft in India
  108. ^ "Embraer and Mahindra announce collaboration on the C-390 Millennium Medium Transport Aircraft in India". www.mahindra.com. Retrieved 9 February 2024.
  109. ^ "Mahindra, Embraer tie up for medium transport aircraft in India". The Economic Times. 9 February 2024. Retrieved 9 February 2024.
  110. ^ "Embraer proposes aircraft assembly line in India in partnership with Mahindra - ET Infra". ETInfra. Retrieved 19 September 2024.
  111. ^ "Brazil to negotiate sale of Embraer C-390 aircraft to Sweden". Reuters. 26 September 2023. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  112. ^ "Brasil negocia venda de cargueiros para a Índia". Poder Aéreo (in Portuguese). 29 September 2023.
  113. ^ "Artilharia indiana para o Brasil?: comandante do Exército Brasileiro faz visita industrial à Índia". InfoDefensa (in Portuguese). 4 September 2023.
  114. ^ "Brasil agora quer 50 caças Gripen e acordo da Embraer com Suécia". Folha de S.Paulo (in Portuguese). 29 September 2023.
  115. ^ Thomas, Richard (21 July 2022). "Embraer and BAE Systems sign MoU to market C-390". Airforce Technology. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  116. ^ "Embraer, SAMI pitch C-390 final assembly to Saudi Arabia".
  117. ^ "Moroccan Military Tests Brazil's KC-390 Millennium for Potential Acquisition".
  118. ^ "Embraer and Correios sign Memorandum of Understanding for optimization studies in air cargo transport". Embraer.
  119. ^ "Brazil cuts three Embraer KC-390s, reducing order to 19".
  120. ^ Cardoso, Por Marcel (27 September 2024). "Embraer entregou sétimo KC-390 à FAB". AERO Magazine (in Brazilian Portuguese). Retrieved 30 September 2024.
  121. ^ "Embraer apresenta o sexto KC-390 da Força Aérea Brasileira". Airway. 3 April 2023.
  122. ^ "Presidente Bolsonaro participa da cerimônia de recebimento do quinto KC-390 da FAB". Defesa Aérea & Naval. 2 December 2021.
  123. ^ "FAB celebra Dia do Especialista e incorpora aeronaves - Força Aérea Brasileira".
  124. ^ "Hungary Signs Contract For Acquisition of Two Multi-Mission KC-390 Millennium Airlifters". 17 November 2020. Archived from the original on 17 November 2020.
  125. ^ "First Embraer C-390 aircraft of Hungarian military to arrive tomorrow". Daily News Hungary. 11 April 2024.
  126. ^ "Hungary welcomes first C-390 for testing". Alert 5. 12 April 2024.
  127. ^ "Portugal confirms purchase of military freighter KC-390". Airway. 11 July 2019. Archived from the original on 11 July 2019.
  128. ^ "First Portuguese KC-390 has arrived".
  129. ^ "Embraer delivers second KC-390 to Portuguese air force".
  130. ^ Meier, Ricardo (19 September 2023). "Austria to replace C-130 Hercules with Embraer KC-390 – report". airdatanews.com. Air Data News. Retrieved 20 September 2023.
  131. ^ "Entscheidung über C-130 "Hercules"-Nachfolge ist gefallen" [Decision on C-130 "Hercules" successor has been made] (in German). 20 September 2023. Retrieved 26 September 2023.
  132. ^ "Czech Republic selects KC-390 tanker-transport aircraft". 17 October 2023.
  133. ^ Pascal, Kümmerling (17 October 2023). "La République tchèque sélectionne le C390 !" [The Czech Republic selects the C390!]. Avia news (in French). Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  134. ^ "Czech Republic Orders Two Embraer C-390 Millennium Multi-Mission Aircraft". embraer.com. 25 October 2024.
  135. ^ Defensie, Ministerie van (16 June 2022). "Defensie vindt opvolger voor C-130 Hercules - Nieuwsbericht - Defensie.nl". defensie.nl (in Dutch). Retrieved 16 June 2022.
  136. ^ "Netherlands Selects C-390 as Hercules Replacement | Aviation Week Network".
  137. ^ "South Korea selects the Embraer C-390 Millennium" (Press release). Embraer. 4 December 2023. Archived from the original on 5 December 2023.
  138. ^ "Embraer: C-390 millennium". Archived from the original on 20 November 2019.
  139. ^ Embraer's Continuously Computed Drop Point (CCDP) (video). Embraer. Retrieved 25 January 2021.
  140. ^ a b "Embraer KC-390 Millennium airlifter successfully concludes airdrop testing campaign". embraer.com. Retrieved 25 January 2021.
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to KC-390.
External image
image icon Large cutaway diagram
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Embraer_C-390_Millennium&oldid=1253444311"