Embraer-Mahindra Partnership for C-390 Millenium Aircraft.
Embraer-Mahindra Group Forge Strategic Alliance for C-390 Millennium: New Delhi, India – In a significant move to bolster India’s aerospace capabilities, Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Group have entered into a landmark Strategic Cooperation Agreement (SCA) to advance the C-390 Millennium aircraft for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program. This partnership, unveiled on October 17 alongside the inauguration of Embraer’s new office in Aerocity, New Delhi, aims to create a robust foundation for local manufacturing, assembly, and supply chain infrastructure in India, marking a bold step toward India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) vision.
The agreement builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in February 2024 at the Brazilian Embassy in New Delhi, further deepening the collaboration between the two aerospace giants. The expanded scope of the agreement includes joint marketing, industrialization, and positioning India as a key hub for the C-390 Millennium, both for domestic use and regional support.
A Collaborative Effort for ‘Make in India’
The partnership between Embraer, a leader in aerospace innovation, and Mahindra Group, a manufacturing powerhouse, is set to leverage India’s world-class aerospace ecosystem to develop a localized supply chain. Together, the two companies will engage with India’s military and aerospace stakeholders to identify opportunities for local manufacturing, assembly facilities, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities. The long-term vision is to establish India as a regional manufacturing and support hub for the C-390 Millennium, strengthening the country’s self-reliance in defence and aerospace technologies.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, emphasized the significance of the partnership, saying, “This agreement marks a major milestone in our relationship with Mahindra Group. India’s aerospace industry is dynamic and world-class, and together, we aim to deliver the most advanced and reliable military transport solution to the Indian Air Force. This partnership reflects our commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the growing friendship between Brazil and India.”
Vinod Sahay, Member of the Group Executive Board at Mahindra Group, echoed the sentiment, adding, “The C-390 Millennium is unmatched in capability, efficiency, and versatility. By deepening our collaboration with Embraer, we will not only support the Indian Air Force’s MTA requirements but also contribute to India’s Make in India philosophy and further its self-reliance in the defence sector.”
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Embraer C-390-Aircraft.
C-390 Millennium Transport Aircraft
The C-390 Millennium is considered one of the most advanced military transport aircraft in its class, capable of carrying a payload of 26 tons—more than any other medium-sized military transport aircraft in operation today. With a speed of 470 knots and an impressive range, the aircraft is designed to perform a wide array of missions, including cargo and troop transport, airdrops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian operations. Its ability to operate from temporary or unpaved runways further enhances its versatility, making it an ideal solution for India’s diverse operational needs.
In addition to its transport capabilities, the C-390 Millennium can be configured for air-to-air refueling, both as a tanker and as a receiver. The aircraft’s exceptional performance is reflected in its mission completion rate of over 99%, demonstrating its reliability and efficiency in critical operations.
Already selected by air forces in Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, South Korea, Czech Republic, Sweden, Slovakia, Lithuania, and an undisclosed customer, the C-390 Millennium has proven its mettle on the global stage. Its capabilities make it an ideal candidate to meet India’s strategic requirements, particularly in enhancing its transport and logistics capabilities across the Indo-Pacific region.
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Strengthening India-Brazil Ties
The agreement also underscores the growing diplomatic and economic ties between India and Brazil. As both nations continue to forge stronger partnerships in the defence and aerospace sectors, Embraer’s expansion in India represents a shared commitment to mutual growth. The partnership is expected to further deepen collaboration in areas such as defence manufacturing, technology transfer, and regional security.
The C-390 Millennium’s potential impact on India’s defence capabilities is significant, offering the Indian Air Force a highly versatile and efficient transport aircraft. As Embraer and Mahindra Group work together to localize production and support the aircraft in India, the partnership will play a critical role in enhancing India’s self-reliance in aerospace technologies and advancing its ambitions to become a global aviation hub.
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Embraer India Office.
Looking Ahead: A Strong Partnership for India’s Aerospace Future
This partnership between Embraer and Mahindra Group marks a new chapter in India’s pursuit of advanced defence technologies and manufacturing capabilities. By combining Embraer’s cutting-edge aerospace innovation with Mahindra Group’s strong manufacturing capabilities, the two companies are set to deliver a state-of-the-art solution that not only meets India’s immediate defence needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term strategic collaboration.
With its unparalleled performance, versatility, and operational efficiency, the C-390 Millennium is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s military transport fleet. Through this partnership, India is not only enhancing its defence capabilities but also strengthening its position as a regional aerospace leader, contributing to the broader goals of self-reliance and technological advancement.
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