Embraer offers to make India KC-390 manufacturing hub

Metro India News | NEW DELHI

Brazilian aerospace major Embraer has offered to turn India into a global manufacturing hub for its KC-390 Millennium aircraft if it wins the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) proposed contract for around 80 medium transport planes.

In an interaction, Embraer President and CEO Francisco Gomes Neto said the company is prepared to establish a full production line in India to serve both domestic needs and export markets across the Asia-Pacific region. He described the KC-390 as a next-generation, multi-mission transport and aerial refuelling aircraft designed to meet the evolving operational demands of modern air forces.

The IAF had issued a Request for Information in 2022 to replace its ageing AN-32 and IL-76 fleet. The multi-billion dollar procurement proposal is expected to move forward soon. The KC-390 is competing against Airbus’ A-400M and Lockheed Martin’s C-130J Super Hercules, of which 12 are already in service with the IAF.

Neto said the jet-powered KC-390 offers a 26-ton payload, faster cruise speed and lower life-cycle costs compared to turboprop platforms. He added that the aircraft has been selected by nine European nations, strengthening its global credentials and interoperability.

If selected, Embraer also plans to establish a dedicated Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul hub in India for regional operators and maximise indigenous manufacturing through partnerships. The company has partnered with Mahindra for the military transport aircraft bid.

In the civilian aviation space, Embraer has deepened its collaboration with Adani Defence and Aerospace to set up a Final Assembly Line in India for the E175 regional jet under the Regional Transport Aircraft programme. With India projected to require around 500 aircraft in the 80-146 seat segment over the next 20 years, Embraer sees India as a long-term strategic base in both defence and commercial aviation.