South Africa: Embraer made an important presentation of its C-390 Millennium multi-mission military transport aircraft at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition, held at Waterkloof Air Base, September 18-22.
At the recent edition of AAD, Embraer had the privilege of presenting the President of South Africa, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, and the Minister of Defense, Angie Motshekga, with the full capabilities of the advanced C-390 Millennium. The strong interest of the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) in this aircraft was evidenced by its comprehensive evaluation. Previously, a SANDF delegation had visited Brazil to get a close look at the Millennium’s features, which led to an invitation to Embraer to demonstrate its capabilities on South African soil, culminating in this high-profile presentation.
“Embraer recognizes the professionalism and dedication of the SANDF during the ongoing selection process to renew its fleet of legacy transport aircraft as the C-390 is a strategically important aircraft that offers outstanding versatility, range, and speed. We are confident that it is well suited to meet the needs of the South African National Defense Force as well as other government authorities”, said Bosco da Costa Junior, president and CEO, Embraer Defense & Security.
“South African National Defense Force has had the opportunity to evaluate the C-390 Millennium and we appreciate the wide range of capabilities and technology that we’ve experienced. SANDF has shown interest in the C-390 Millennium, as it advances in the necessary steps for the selection of the much needed strategic lift capability for the SANDF.” said the South African National Defence Force.
South Africa could become a strategic entry point for the company in the African market, where potential demand for up to 50 medium military transport aircrafts is estimated. By establishing an industrial partnership in the country, Embraer would be in a privileged position to serve the needs of multiple customers on the continent.
The aircraft is particularly appreciated for its ability to carry up to 26 tons of cargo at high speed and perform a broad spectrum of missions at any time in the most demanding operating conditions. Since 2019, the C-390 Millennium has proven its operational efficiency for its end users, performing tactical transport of troops, cargo, vehicles and equipment, medical evacuation, disaster management, humanitarian aid, rapid crisis response, search and rescue, aerial refueling and firefighting.
The C-390 Millennium, already a proven workhorse, has been selected by Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, South Korea and the Czech Republic.
