Embraer and Denel Sign MoU to Explore Collaboration on KC-390 Millennium
Embraer and Denel partner to promote the KC-390 Millennium in South Africa and strengthen the African aerospace industry.
Embraer, a global leader in the aerospace industry, and Denel, South Africa’s leading aerospace and defense company, have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the LAAD Defence and Security exhibition in Brazil. The MoU, signed by Chris Boshoff, CEO and Group Executive of Denel, and Fabio Caparica, Vice President of Contracts at Embraer Defense & Security, sets the framework for a potential collaboration on the KC-390 Millennium. The focus will be on the manufacturing of aerostructures, as well as maintenance, repair, and overhaul activities.
“We are excited to strengthen our relationship with Denel, a leading aerospace company in South Africa, as the country looks to renew its military aircraft fleet,” said Fabio Caparica. “Our goal is to provide South Africa with the most advanced aircraft in its class, while also working closely with the local industry.”
Chris Boshoff, CEO of Denel Aerospace, also highlighted the importance of the partnership with a globally recognized company like Embraer. “Our long-standing relationship spans several decades, and this collaboration will further enhance our partnership. Denel is well equipped and a recognized industrial partner to carry out the planned tasks, which will significantly boost strategic airlift capabilities across the African continent.”
Embraer strongly believes that the KC-390 Millennium is the ideal military transport aircraft for operations in South Africa. Its versatility, ease of reconfiguration, and ability to operate from unpaved runways make it a highly efficient and suitable solution for African armed forces.
The KC-390 Millennium can carry a higher payload (26 tons) than other medium-sized military transport aircraft. It also flies faster (470 knots) and has a longer range, enabling it to perform a wide variety of missions, including humanitarian aid, cargo and troop transport and airdrop, air-to-air refueling (as both tanker and receiver), medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and special operations. It can also operate from temporary or unpaved runways such as compacted earth, dirt, or gravel.
The aircraft has already been acquired by nine countries: Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, South Korea, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, and one undisclosed customer. Additionally, it has been officially selected by Sweden and Slovakia for their air force modernization programs.
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It's also worth noting that South Africa’s National Defence Force (SANDF) officially expressed interest in the KC-390 Millennium in late 2023. In response to a government request, Embraer deployed a demonstration aircraft to the country in September 2024 for intensive testing and evaluation across various operational scenarios. During these trials, the KC-390 showcased its performance, versatility, and suitability for South Africa’s strategic needs—positioning itself as a strong contender to modernize the nation’s military transport fleet.
AUTOR
Apasionado por la aviación, la historia, la política y la defensa. Editor-in-Chief en Aviacionline Defensa, combinando estos conocimiento para ofrecer un contenido valioso sobre temas estratégicos y de seguridad.
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