Sweden has signed a contract with Embraer for four C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft, becoming the latest European nation to join the joint procurement program already involving the Netherlands and Austria. The agreement also includes seven additional purchase options that could lead to future acquisitions by other European partners.
The trilateral framework aims to strengthen collaboration in tactical airlift, focusing on joint procurement, interoperability, and shared support infrastructure. The signing took place at Uppsala Air Base in the presence of Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson, Air Force Commander Major General Jonas Wikman, and representatives from other C-390 operators, including Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, and the Czech Republic.
“With the C-390 Millennium, I am convinced we will increase our operational efficiency while enhancing interoperability with our European partners,” said Pål Jonson, Sweden’s Minister for Defence.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, welcomed Sweden’s participation, stating, “This partnership reinforces the aircraft’s growing reputation as the new standard for tactical airlift in Europe and among NATO nations.”
The Netherlands’ Minister for Arms Procurement and Personnel, Gijs Tuinman, said, “We are delighted to count Sweden among our partners — a country renowned for its expertise in air operations. Together, we will make the most of this next-generation aircraft to strengthen security across Europe.”
Austrian National Armaments Director Lieutenant General Harald Vodosek also highlighted the partnership’s long-term focus, noting that the countries aim to “set new standards of efficiency and interoperability for demanding missions in the decades to come.”
Sweden’s decision follows earlier orders from the Netherlands and Austria, which jointly committed to nine C-390s in 2024. The aircraft, in service since 2019 with the Brazilian Air Force, has also entered operations in Portugal (2023) and Hungary (2024).
According to Embraer, the C-390 has achieved a 93% mission capability rate and a mission completion rate above 99%. The aircraft can transport up to 26 tons of cargo, reach speeds of 470 knots, and operate from semi-prepared runways. It can perform a variety of missions including cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian support. The KC-390 variant can also conduct aerial refueling as both tanker and receiver.