The Czech Ministry of Defense has formalized its acquisition of two Embraer C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft, becoming the fourth NATO country to adopt the versatile aircraft for its air force.
The contract was signed on October 25, 2024, as announced by the Brazilian manufacturer.
The new aircraft will strengthen the Czech Air Force’s operational capabilities, enabling them to conduct tactical airlift, medical evacuation, firefighting and air-to-air refueling missions. Currently, the country operates a fleet of smaller transport aircraft, namely six CASA C295M and four homegrown Let L-410 Turbojets.
“Past and present history clearly shows us that the military needs to be able to transport people and heavier cargo over longer distances,” said Defence Minister Jana Černochová. “Evacuations from Afghanistan and Sudan are clear evidence of this.”
In addition to enhancing the Czech Air Force capabilities, the deal includes a substantial industrial cooperation agreement with local companies, such as Aero Vodochody Aerospace and LOM Praha, who will participate in the production, maintenance and lifecycle management of the aircraft.
The C-390 Millennium is powered by two Pratt & Whitney V2500-E5 engines. It offers a substantial cargo capacity of 26 tons and is specifically engineered for takeoff and landing on semi-prepared and unpaved airfields.
Beyond basic transport functions, the Czech C-390 will come equipped with extensive additional modules to meet a variety of operational needs. These include aerial firefighting capabilities, in-flight refueling, patient transport systems, and search and rescue equipment. The aircraft will also feature additional fuel tanks for extended range, a self-protection system for dangerous environments, and advanced systems for special forces operations.
This order joins those from NATO members Portugal, the Netherlands and Hungary, further consolidating Embraer’s role in European defense logistics.