Embraer’s C-390 Millennium program reached a historic milestone today, having received the Full Operational Capability (FOC) certificate from the Brazilian Air Force (FAB).
In a ceremony held at the Gavião Peixoto Unit in São Paulo, in the presence of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) High Command, the aircraft has achieved the Full Operational Capability (FOC). Issued by the Institute of Industrial Development and Coordination (IFI in Portuguese), the Brazilian body responsible for certifying aircraft for military purposes, the FOC Certificate confirms that the project meets all the requirements defined by the FAB and that the aircraft can carry out all missions for which it was designed.
“This certificate places the C-390 in a select group of aircraft in the world,” says Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense and Security. “It is a unique moment in Embraer’s history. The C-390 is redefining the military airlift and refueling space, challenging the thinking behind current and future generation platforms. Air forces around the world are focused on matching their ever-evolving operational needs with their budgets, seeking a platform that can perform multiple missions, recognizing that today’s choice will affect their operational capabilities tomorrow.”
Developed under the strict operational requirements of the FAB, some 3,500 flight hours were performed with the prototype aircraft in the most diverse operating conditions, and another 85,000 hours on laboratory benches and test benches. The result, after years of development, testing and certification, is a project established to the highest market standards.
At the same event, Embraer began the process of delivering the sixth C-390 unit to the Brazilian Air Force, the first in FOC configuration. The other aircraft already delivered to the FAB will now start operating with their full capabilities. In addition, all exported aircraft will be able to receive these capabilities.
Since entering operation with FAB in 2019, the C-390 has proven its capacity, reliability, and performance. The current fleet of five aircraft, all in the aerial refueling version, designated KC-390, has already accumulated more than 8,200 flight hours. Recent figures show an operational availability of around 80%, with a mission completion rate above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category
The C-390 Millennium has orders from Portugal and Hungary, both NATO members. The Netherlands, also a NATO member, has selected the C-390 Millennium in 2022 and the model is currently being evaluated by Austria and is competing in South Korea to replace ROKAF C-130Hs.
