Embraer and the Portuguese Air Force (FAP) marked two key program developments this week with the delivery of Portugal’s third KC-390 Millennium transport aircraft and the first flight of the A-29N Super Tucano, a new variant tailored for NATO use.
The events took place in Gavião Peixoto, Brazil, where both aircraft participated in a formation flight—highlighting the expanding partnership between Embraer and Portugal.
The KC-390 handover brings the Portuguese fleet to three units, as part of a contract that includes a total of six aircraft and options for ten more, potentially destined for other NATO or allied users. The A-29N’s maiden flight marks the start of its flight test campaign, following a 2024 order for 12 aircraft. Portugal is the launch customer for this version of the Super Tucano.
According to the FAP’s KC-390 Program Director, Major-General João Nogueira, the third KC-390 enhances operational capabilities and supports the air force’s broader modernization goals. He added that the A-29N test campaign represents a step forward toward deploying an aircraft configured to Portuguese specifications for advanced training and operational use.
The KC-390 is a multi-role tactical airlifter capable of transporting up to 26 tons of cargo. It can conduct a range of missions, including air-to-air refueling, troop and cargo transport, medevac, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance. Designed for flexibility, it can operate from unprepared runways and meets NATO interoperability standards.
Portugal is one of several NATO countries to select the KC-390 as part of broader fleet modernization plans. Other customers include Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, Sweden, Slovakia, and Lithuania. Brazil, the launch operator, and South Korea have also placed orders, bringing the total number of customer nations to 11.
Meanwhile, the A-29 Super Tucano continues to serve as a multi-role platform for light attack and training missions. The NATO-configured A-29N will incorporate enhanced avionics and secure communications systems, in line with alliance requirements. Globally, the A-29 fleet has logged more than 600,000 flight hours across 22 air forces, with over 290 units ordered to date.
The joint progress of both programs signals continued momentum in Portugal’s efforts to expand its air capabilities through international industrial cooperation.