Embraer and Rheinmetall are evaluating options to expand the training network focused on the C-390 Millennium, considering the needs of the growing number of European customers for the aircraft. The assessment could lead to the development of a region-specific training solution to support current and future C-390 customers.
Key points:
- The objective is to meet the growing demand for training by European C-390 customers.
- The training center would offer courses for pilots, loadmasters, mechanics and other crew members.
- The creation of the training center could lead to increased C-390 sales to European customers.
- The training center could also help create jobs in the region.
Embraer has a C-390 Training Center in Brazil, in the state of São Paulo, which includes a Full Flight and Mission Simulator (FFMS) and a Loadmaster Training Station. The Center has received crews from the Brazilian, Portuguese, and Hungarian Air Forces for initial C-390 training.
Embraer and Rheinmetall are studying ways to increase proximity to current and future customers of the aircraft, with the aim of facilitating the training of pilots, loadmasters, mechanics, and other crew members.
“With the continued success of the C-390 throughout Europe, the time has come to start planning a European training center for the C-390, with complete facilities to train the aircraft’s crew and cargo operation,” says Timo Haas, CDO of Rheinmetall and Executive Vice President of Rheinmetall Electronics.
“We want to create the best conditions for our C-390 customers by offering the best training in its class. We continuously monitor the network and evaluate customized solutions for each region as the fleet grows,” says Ayslan Anholon, Vice President of Flight and Training Operations for Embraer Services & Support.
With the evolving defense and security challenges facing NATO allies and partner nations, European air forces need to train their pilots to rigorous standards to effectively combat emerging threats.
“Our goal is to prepare C-390 pilots for varied and complex scenarios. Creating the conditions for rigorous and continuous training will improve the pilots’ tactical skills and decision-making ability, which are crucial for operating advanced aircraft and responding in dynamic threat environments,” says José Gustavo, Vice President of Sales for Embraer Defence & Security for Europe and Africa.
The Portuguese Air Force has acquired an FFMS as part of its C-390 contract with Embraer, which will be installed at Beja Air Base (Portugal). The Royal Netherlands Air Force also plans to have its own FFMS in the country.
The outcome of the talks between Embraer and Rheinmetall could enhance the regional network and promote other future national C-390 FFMSs around the world.
