At the LAAD Defence & Security exhibition in Rio de Janeiro, Embraer made several significant announcements regarding new agreements for its aircraft, further solidifying its position as a leader in the aerospace industry.
Panama Selects Super Tucano for National Air and Naval Service
Embraer revealed that Panama has selected the Super Tucano aircraft as the new platform for its National Air and Naval Service (SENAN). This decision strengthens Panama’s surveillance capabilities and is part of an ongoing national security project. With this acquisition, Panama joins seven other Latin American countries, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Ecuador, that have chosen the Super Tucano as their primary surveillance aircraft. The Super Tucano, renowned for its versatility and low operating costs, is widely used for border monitoring, reconnaissance, and counter-illicit activities, contributing significantly to regional security efforts.
Sweden Secures C-390 Millennium Acquisition
Sweden also made waves at LAAD with the confirmation of its commitment to acquiring four C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft. This acquisition is a major boost for the Swedish Air Force, enhancing its transport capabilities and interoperability with NATO forces. The C-390, which is designed for a variety of missions including cargo transport, search and rescue, and humanitarian operations, has proven its reliability with operators worldwide. Sweden’s decision to join the Netherlands and Austria in the C-390 program further expands the aircraft’s role in European defense operations.
Collaboration with the Portuguese Air Force for ISR Capabilities
In another significant development, Embraer announced its collaboration with the Portuguese and Brazilian Air Forces to enhance the KC-390 Millennium’s capabilities for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The study aims to integrate modular mission systems into the KC-390, allowing it to perform ISR and maritime patrol missions while maintaining its multi-mission transport abilities. This initiative strengthens the aircraft’s operational flexibility and is seen as a crucial step in meeting the evolving needs of modern air forces.
Turkish Aerospace and Embraer Explore E2 Production Opportunities in Turkey
Embraer also unveiled a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Turkish Aerospace (TUSAŞ) to explore industrial cooperation opportunities. The collaboration will focus on potential partnerships in manufacturing and assembly, specifically for Embraer’s E2 aircraft series. Turkish Aerospace will bring its capabilities in assembling metallic and composite structures, fuselages, components, test flights, and more to support Embraer’s growing global production demands. The MoU marks a significant milestone for the Turkish defense and aerospace industry, with both companies aiming to develop innovative solutions that will help shape the future of aviation.
The MoU was signed at LAAD by Mustafa Gursoy, Executive VP of Turkish Aerospace, and Francisco Gomes Neto, President and CEO of Embraer, with notable figures including Brazil’s Vice President, Minister of Development, Industry, Trade and Services, and Turkish Ministry representatives in attendance.
Embraer (@embraer) announces key agreements at #LAAD2025 (@LAAD_Exhibition )
📌 Sweden secures C-390 Millennium acquisition
📌 Collaboration with the Portuguese Air Force to enhance ISR capabilities
📌 Panama selects Super Tucano for National Air and Naval Service
📌 MoU with… pic.twitter.com/MpUwY7H23C— Defensehere (@defensehere_en) April 2, 2025