Czech Air Force receives first Embraer C-390 Millennium

The Czech Air Force has taken delivery of its first Embraer C-390 Millennium, marking a milestone in the country’s efforts to modernize its tactical airlift fleet and strengthen its support for military and humanitarian operations.

The aircraft was formally handed over during a ceremony at Prague Kbely Air Base, 20 months after the acquisition contract was signed. The Czech Republic is the latest NATO member to introduce the multi-role transport aircraft into service.

Designed as a medium tactical airlifter, the C-390 can undertake a wide range of missions, including cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation (medevac), search and rescue (SAR), humanitarian assistance, aerial firefighting, and equipment airdrops.

The aircraft can also operate from temporary and unpaved runways and be configured for air-to-air refueling missions.

Brigadier General Jaroslav Falta, Commander of the Czech Air Force’s 24th Air Transportation Base, said: “The C-390 Millennium provides the Czech Air Force with a significant new airlift capability, enabling us to transport heavy and oversized cargo over long distances while strengthening our support for NATO operations and emergency response at home.”

Czech Defense Minister Jaromír Zůna added that the aircraft would improve the armed forces’ ability to transport personnel, equipment, and humanitarian aid in support of both national and allied missions.

For the air medical community, the C-390’s rapid reconfiguration for medevac missions offers an additional platform capable of transporting critically ill or injured patients over long distances while carrying medical teams and specialist equipment.

The Czech Republic joins a growing number of operators of the C-390, with the aircraft also selected by Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, Sweden, Slovakia, Lithuania, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and Uzbekistan.