Embraer showcased its C-390 Millennium multi-mission military transport aircraft at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition, held from September 18 to 22, 2024, at Waterkloof Air Force Base, South Africa.
The event allowed Embraer to present the aircraft’s capabilities to South African political authorities, including South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa and Defense Minister Angie Motshekga.
According to Embraer, the C-390 Millennium attracted significant interest from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), evaluating the aircraft as part of its fleet renewal program.
“We are confident that [the C-390] is well suited to meet the needs of the South African National Defense Force as well as other government authorities,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.
The South African Air Force transport fleet currently consists of five C-130BZ Hercules transport aircraft operated by the 28 Squadron based at Waterkloof Air Force Base.
“South African National Defense Force has had the opportunity to evaluate the C-390 Millennium and we appreciate the wide range of capabilities and technology that we’ve experienced,” said the South African National Defence Force. “SANDF has shown interest in the C-390 Millennium, as it advances in the necessary steps for the selection of the much needed strategic lift capability for the SANDF.”
The Embraer C-390 Millennium serves as a tactical transport aircraft and is intended for a wide range of missions. Its functions range from conducting medical evacuations to engaging in search and rescue operations, as well as transporting troops and cargo.
The C-390 is powered by Pratt and Whitney V2500-E5 engines, and it offers a substantial cargo capacity of 26 tons. It is specifically engineered for takeoff and landing on semi-prepared and unpaved airfields.
The aircraft can also be tailored for specialized assignments, such as aerial refueling (KC-390) and waterbombing.