Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra have signed an MoU to fulfil the acquisition of the C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft by the Indian Air Force identifying the next steps for the MTA program.
Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra have formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly fulfil the acquisition of the C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft by the Indian Air Force. The MoU, signed at the Embassy of Brazil in New Delhi, marks a significant step in enhancing defense cooperation between Brazil and India. Embraer and Mahindra will collaborate with the Indian Air Force to identify the next steps for the MTA program.
They will also engage with the local aerospace industry in India to develop an industrialization plan for the project. The partnership aligns with the Indian government’s vision of self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.
Mahindra Defence Systems, a 100% owned subsidiary of Mahindra focusing on armored transport and security-related products, signed the MoU alongside Embraer Defense & Security.
Embraer has a longstanding presence in India across defense, commercial aviation, and executive aviation. The C-390 Millennium Day held in New Delhi in August 2023 demonstrated Embraer’s commitment to engaging with the local aerospace industry.
“We are honored to announce this MoU with Mahindra . India has a diverse and strong defense and aerospace industry and we have chosen Mahindra as our partner to jointly pursue the MTA program” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO, Embraer Defense & Security. “India is a key market for Embraer and we fully support India’s ambitions for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. We see this partnership as a symbol of strengthening relations between Brazil and India and a way to foster Global South cooperation,” he further added.
The C-390 Millennium is a multi-mission tactical transport aircraft known for its unmatched mobility, high productivity, operating flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. Since entering service with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and subsequently with the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the aircraft has demonstrated exceptional performance, accumulating over 11,500 flight hours.
The C-390 Millennium, with a payload capacity of 26 tonnes and a cruising speed of 870 km/h (470 knots), can perform a variety of missions, including cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, aerial firefighting, and humanitarian missions. Its versatility is evident in its ability to operate on temporary or unpaved runways, making it suitable for a wide range of environments.
Vinod Sahay, President Aerospace & Defence Sector and Member of Group Executive Board, Mahindra said, “We are proud to start this partnership with Embraer, a company that is known for its engineering excellence and a unique portfolio of aircraft and systems. The C-390 Millennium is the most advanced military airlifter in the market, and we believe that this partnership will not only bolster the operational prowess of the Indian Air Force, but also provide an efficient industrialization solution that aligns seamlessly with the objectives of Make in India,” he further added.
The Full Operational Capability status achieved by the C-390 Millennium in 2023 attests to its capability to execute all designated missions. The aircraft has garnered international interest, with Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, and South Korea selecting it for their air forces.
The collaboration between Embraer and Mahindra on the C-390 Millennium aims to bring cutting-edge aerospace and military transport technology to India. The partnership will explore the potential for India to become a regional hub for the C-390 aircraft, contributing to the nation’s strategic defense capabilities and fostering technological advancements in the aerospace sector.
Also Read – SR Technics names Owen McClave as new CEO
In conclusion, the Embraer-Mahindra collaboration represents a significant milestone in defense cooperation, offering India access to advanced military transport capabilities and reinforcing the principles of self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The partnership aligns with India’s broader vision of enhancing its defense capabilities through indigenous production and technological collaboration with global leaders in the aerospace industry.
Question- What is the purpose of the MoU between Embraer and Mahindra?
Answer- To jointly pursue the acquisition of C-390 multi-mission aircraft for the Indian Air Force and support its “Make in India” initiative.
Question- What are the key features of the C-390 Millennium?
Answer- Multi-mission capability, high mobility, 26-ton payload, 870 km/h speed, versatility for diverse missions and terrains.
Question- What are the potential benefits for India?
Answer- Bolstered air force capabilities, local production opportunities, technological advancements in aerospace.
Note– MRO Business Today is the Principal Media Partner of the 5th MRO SOUTH ASIA SUMMIT 2024 co-located with the MRO XPO INDIA & AIRCRAFT INTERIORS INDIA 2024 to be held on 27,28 & 29 February 2024 at the Le Méridien New Delhi, India.
