Decision Further Expands the Millennium’s Role In NATO Military Operations

Sweden’s Ministry of Defense recently announced that it will be making the Embraer C-390 Millennium its new military transport aircraft. This marks the 6th European nation to select the aircraft for cargo operations and the first C-390 purchase in Northern Europe.

The C-390 will serve as a replacement for the aging C-130 Hercules fleet. The Swedish Air Force currently operates five C-130H as tactical transport aircraft and one KC-130H as an aerial tanker.

Nations looking to modernize their military cargo fleets are, for the most part, deciding between the C-130J or the C-390. Though the two aircraft serve similar purposes, the C-390 has a larger payload capacity, travels at faster speeds, and has a higher service ceiling than the C-130J. It can also be refueled mid-air and is cheaper both to purchase and maintain. However, the C-130J has a longer range and is already well-established with the US Air Force and many NATO members.

Sweden’s growing collaboration with Brazil played a role in its selection of the C-390. Brazil signed a contract in 2010 with Swedish manufacturer Saab to purchase 36 JAS 39 Gripen fighters. More recently, it confirmed plans to expand the agreement by 25%.

“Embraer is honored with this selection by Sweden,” stated Bosco Da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. “After several European NATO countries selected the C-390, this decision is a testimony that this multi-mission aircraft represents a tremendous operational capability upgrade compared to previous generation tactical transport aircraft.”

The Embraer C-390 Millennium has quickly gained traction in Europe. It was first chosen by Portugal and Hungary, followed by the Netherlands and Austria. The Netherlands selected the C-390 over the C-130J due to its payload and maintenance perks.

These agreements form a network across Europe and provide a foundation for shared infrastructure and logistical operations.

The Millennium is an advanced platform for cargo operations and can support airlift, MEDEVAC, refueling, and relief missions. It can transport up to 26 tons for a range of 2,815 nm and has a top speed of 470 kts. Embraer has also outfitted the aircraft with Honeywell’s Primus Epic avionics suite.

FMI: www.defense.embraer.com