Within the framework of the Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program, the Brazilian government and Embraer are intensifying diplomatic and industrial efforts to position the KC-390 Millennium tactical transport aircraft as the alternative to replace the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) veteran Il-76s. In a context of growing strategic cooperation, both countries are advancing an agenda that combines diplomacy, technology transfer, and industrial development, strengthening Brazil’s presence in the competitive Asian aerospace market.
As part of this strategy, Embraer announced the creation of a wholly-owned subsidiary in AeroCity, New Delhi, with the aim of strengthening its institutional positioning and facilitating direct engagement with the Indian aerospace ecosystem. This new office is tasked with coordinating relations with government authorities and local companies, as well as promoting joint projects under the “Make in India” program through the development of industrial capabilities, technology transfer, and supply chain strengthening.
This business initiative is complemented by an active diplomatic agenda. Brazil’s ambassador to India, Kenia de Nóbrega, has emphasized that the South American country will offer an industrial compensation package equivalent to the conditions India typically requires in its military acquisitions. Within this framework, Brazil has expressed interest in incorporating certain Indian defense products, including BrahMos cruise missiles and associated systems, as part of potential offset agreements. Additionally, preliminary assessments have considered Indian HAL Tejas Mk1A aircraft, potentially for replacing Brazil’s Northrop F-5M, as well as LCH Prachand attack helicopters. This approach seeks to consolidate reciprocal defense cooperation and diversify strategic ties between the two countries.
It is worth noting that Embraer Defence & Security and Mahindra Defence Systems signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2024 to jointly evaluate the KC-390 Millennium proposal within the MTA program. Signed at the Brazilian Embassy in New Delhi, this agreement initiated consultations with the local aerospace sector and laid the groundwork for a potential industrialization and co-production plan in India. Collaboration with Mahindra, a key national industry player, is seen as essential to ensure the integration of local content and comply with Indian government requirements.
Promotion of the KC-390 in India began during Aero India 2023, where the aircraft was officially presented to military authorities and industry representatives. Since then, Embraer has intensified its presence with commercial and technical missions aimed at identifying potential partners and suppliers. At the same time, the Brazilian company has strengthened its offering with operational demonstrations highlighting the Millennium’s advantages over competitors such as the C-130J Super Hercules and Airbus A400M, emphasizing its higher payload capacity, speed, and logistical flexibility.
Currently, around 50 Embraer aircraft operate in India across various segments: defense, business aviation, and commercial, supported by a consolidated technical and maintenance network. In the military sector, the Indian Air Force already operates Embraer platforms such as the Legacy 600 for VIP transport and the AEW&C “Netra” system, based on the ERJ145, reinforcing the company’s position as a reliable technology partner. With this background and the diplomatic support of Brazil, the KC-390 Millennium is consolidating as a strong and competitive proposal to modernize India’s strategic transport fleet.
*Images used for illustrative purposes
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