Brazilian aerospace company Embraer has signed a deal with Greece’s Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) to examine the possibility of developing in-country maintenance, repair, and overhaul support for the C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft.
The C-390 is a twin-engine tactical transport platform designed for multiple mission profiles, including troop transport, cargo delivery, medical evacuation, and aerial refueling operations.
Should the initiative move forward, Greece would gain the ability to perform part of the aircraft’s sustainment and maintenance activities locally, potentially increasing fleet availability while reducing dependence on foreign support facilities.
The cooperation would also expand HAI’s role within the defence aerospace sector. Embraer official Douglas Lobo stated that the partnership would strengthen the company’s presence in Greece while deepening its long-term ties with the country.
Growing Momentum for the C-390 in Europe
The announcement coincides with reports that Athens is considering the acquisition of the Brazilian-made transport aircraft for its armed forces.
According to Reuters, Greek authorities have not yet revealed how many C-390 aircraft may be purchased or the possible financial value of the programme.
Greece currently operates C-130 Hercules transport aircraft from Lockheed Martin as well as Leonardo C-27J Spartan tactical airlifters. The country is also implementing a broader military modernization strategy that includes plans to spend around 28 billion euros ($33 billion) by 2036 on defence upgrades.
As part of its broader European expansion strategy, Embraer has been building up regional support infrastructure to strengthen the C-390 Millennium’s competitiveness within the European defence market.
The aircraft has already secured orders or selections from several European operators, including Portugal, the Netherlands, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia, and Sweden.
The C-390 Millennium is capable of transporting up to 26 tons of payload, carries 23.9 metric tons of fuel in its wing tanks, and can reach cruising speeds of up to 470 knots (870 km/h or 540 mph).
