Embraer to supply Portugal with five KC-390 aircraft

KC-390 signing ceremony in Portugal. L-R: Portugal Air Commander, General Joaquim Borrego; Prime Minister, António Costa; and President of Embraer Defense and Security, Jackson Schneider, during the signing ceremony of KC-390 acquisition held at Embraer facility in Évora, Portugal, on August 22, 2019. Photo courtesy of Francisco Craveiro for Embraer

The Portuguese Government has signed a contract with Embraer that enlists the aerospace company to supply Portugal with five multi-mission airlifters Embraer KC-390, which will be used to support national Armed Forces operations in humanitarian support, medical evacuation, SAR, firefighting, superior cargo and troops transport, aerial delivery and aerial refuelling capabilities

“This is the highest achievement of a careful selection process that makes us proud, representing the entry of the KC-390 into the international market. The KC-390 will meet Portugal's operational needs, ensuring the ability to integrate with allied nations for decades to come”, said Jackson Schneider, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. "This contract strengthens the industrial partnership between Portugal and Embraer, contributing to the development of the engineering and aeronautics industry in Portugal."

The KC-390 received its Civil Certification from the Brazilian National Aviation Agency in 2018 and is now in full serial production. Entry into service is expected to occur in the third quarter of 2019 with the Brazilian Air Force, with follow-on deliveries to occur throughout the year.

The KC-390 aircraft are due to begin being delivered to Portugal in 2023.