Embraer continues strengthening its position in the global defense market with the C-390 Millennium, and now Mexico emerges as a potential new customer. Following an aerial demonstration at the Santa Lucía military base after the Farnborough Airshow in July, negotiations regarding a possible acquisition of this aircraft by Mexico have gained momentum.According to the media outlet Militaer Aktuell, Francisco Gomes Neto, CEO of Embraer, participated in the inauguration of Mexico’s new president, Claudia Sheinbaum. During his visit, he signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Mexican Aerospace Association to explore new business opportunities and joint defense projects.The agreement reinforces Mexico’s interest in the C-390 Millennium as a replacement for its military transport fleet, which includes the aging C-130K Hercules and an L-100-30. Additionally, the use of the A-29 Super Tucano has been considered for border surveillance and anti-drug operations. Historically, Mexico had evaluated options such as Lockheed Martin’s C-130J Super Hercules and the Airbus A400M. However, the strong commercial and political ties between Brazil and Mexico appear to favor Embraer, as evidenced by the recent order of 20 E190-E2 jets by Mexicana de Aviación.
Lessons from a failed alliance with Boeing
The global interest in the C-390 arises after a challenging phase for Embraer. In 2020, the company faced the cancellation of an agreement with Boeing, which initially aimed to form a joint venture for the development and marketing of the KC-390. The breakup, attributed to Boeing’s financial difficulties during the pandemic, was resolved in 2024 with a $150 million settlement for Embraer.Despite the setback, Embraer has managed to position the C-390 as a viable alternative to competitors like the C-130 Hercules. Countries that have already acquired the aircraft include Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic, while others, such as India and Saudi Arabia, have shown interest.Francisco Gomes Neto has not specified how many C-390 units might be acquired but described the agreement as an important strategic partnership. Official details and potential contracts are expected to be announced during the next edition of the Mexican Aerospace Fair (FAMEX), scheduled for April 2025.
