• Embraer’s MTA Offer: A Future-Ready, Cost-Effective Transport Aircraft for India

 By Sangeeta Saxena

 Bangalore. 24 February 2025. At Aero India 2025, Embraer is actively pitching the C-390 Millennium as the ideal choice for India’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) programme. The company believes that the aircraft’s multi-mission capability, fuel efficiency, and future-ready features make it a game-changer for the Indian Air Force (IAF). In this exclusive interview with Aviation & Defence Universe (ADU), Frederico Lemos Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Defense & Security discusses the capabilities of the C-390, its suitability for India’s defence needs and the company’s commitment to Make in India through its partnership with Mahindra.

ADU. Embraer is pitching the C-390 Millennium for the MTA programme. What makes it the best choice for India?

Frederico Lemos. We are excited to be here at Aero India 2025, engaging with stakeholders and showcasing the C-390 Millennium. This is the second time we have brought the C-390 to India, and we firmly believe it is the best choice for the MTA programme for several reasons. First, its versatility—it can perform multiple missions such as airlift, airdrop, aerial refuelling, medical evacuation, and special operations while operating from existing Indian airfields. We have analyzed the airfields used by the Indian Air Force (IAF), and the C-390 can efficiently operate from all of them. Second, in terms of life-cycle cost, the C-390 offers affordability and efficiency over the next three to four decades. The IAF is not just acquiring an asset for today—it needs a platform that can evolve and sustain future challenges. The C-390 meets these requirements while also supporting network-centric warfare, enabling seamless operation with next-generation fighters.

ADU. A key concern for India is the ability of the MTA to double up as a mid-air refueler. How does the C-390 address this need?

Frederico Lemos. The C-390 is an excellent aerial refueler, particularly for India’s existing fighter fleet. Unlike turboprop aircraft, which require fighters to descend to lower altitudes for refuelling, the C-390 operates at higher altitudes, eliminating unnecessary fuel consumption for altitude changes. Additionally, its speed compatibility with fighter aircraft makes refuelling smoother and safer. Fighter pilots will find the process easier and more efficient compared to turboprop alternatives.

ADU. The C-390 also offers ground-to-ground refuelling. Could you elaborate on this feature?

Frederico Lemos. Yes, the C-390 has an advanced fuel system that enables it to conduct both aerial and ground-based refuelling. It features roll-on, roll-off fuel tanks, allowing it to transport fuel alongside cargo or personnel. This is particularly beneficial in remote or forward-deployed operations, where maintaining a strong logistical chain is crucial. The C-390 can refuel other aircraft on the ground or transfer fuel to another C-390 to extend operational reach.

ADU. How does the C-390’s flexibility in role-switching enhance its operational efficiency?

Frederico Lemos. The C-390 is designed for rapid role transitions—one moment, it can be a transport aircraft, and the next, it can handle medical evacuation, troop deployment, or special missions. This flexibility significantly reduces operational downtime and allows the IAF to quickly reconfigure assets based on mission needs. Additionally, conducting mid-air refuelling with a medium-sized aircraft is much more cost-effective than relying on large strategic airlifters, making it a practical choice for India’s operational landscape.

ADU. India’s border regions present unique challenges, including noise concerns. Can the C-390 offer a stealth advantage?

Frederico Lemos. The C-390’s high-bypass turbofan engines make it quieter than turboprop aircraft, reducing its acoustic footprint. Additionally, it flies higher, making it harder to detect. Moreover, the C-390 is equipped with an advanced self-protection system and electronic warfare (EW) capabilities, enabling it to operate safely in contested airspace. This provides greater survivability for missions near India’s borders.

ADU. Can the C-390’s avionics and electronic warfare systems be customized to Indian requirements?

Frederico Lemos. Absolutely. We have our own mission computers, which allow us to integrate India-specific communications and avionics. India has its own secure communication protocols, and just like we’ve done for other countries, we can seamlessly integrate them into the C-390. This enhances its interoperability and security for the IAF.

ADU. Embraer has partnered with Mahindra for the MTA programme. Will production be fully localized under Make in India?

Frederico Lemos. 100% yes. We are deeply committed to Make in India and have already deployed a localization team to engage with Mahindra and other Indian companies. Beyond just assembling the C-390 in India, we are exploring partnerships with local suppliers to develop components, transfer technology, and enhance India’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.

ADU. If awarded the contract, will Embraer establish a training and skill development program for the Indian Air Force?

Frederico Lemos. Yes, definitely. The C-390 is easy to operate and maintain, which will help the IAF rapidly train pilots and technicians.We will also provide full flight simulators, ensuring that Indian pilots can train locally instead of going abroad. This will reduce costs and increase operational readiness.

ADU. What about Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO)? Has Embraer identified a partner in India?

Frederico Lemos. We are currently exploring options for an MRO partner in India, in alignment with IAF’s requirements. We already have a facility in Hosur through Airworks, supporting our executive jet fleet. For the MTA programme, we will select a trusted MRO partner to ensure long-term sustainment and operational efficiency.

ADU. Why is the C-390 Millennium the most suitable choice for India’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) programme?

Frederico Lemos, Embraer’s C-390 Millennium presents a compelling case for India’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) programme. With multi-role flexibility, advanced avionics, mid-air refuelling capability, and commitment to Make in India, it stands out as a cost-effective and future-ready solution for the Indian Air Force.

ADU. How does Embraer’s partnership with Mahindra align with the Make in India initiative?

Frederico Lemos. Through its partnership with Mahindra, Embraer is fully committed to localizing production, transferring technology, and strengthening India’s aerospace industry. With additional advantages such as stealth capability, electronic warfare systems, and a robust training and MRO strategy, the C-390 is poised to become a key asset in India’s defence fleet for decades to come.

ADU. Why is the C-390 Millennium the most suitable choice for India’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) programme, and how does Embraer’s partnership with Mahindra align with the Make in India initiative?

Frederico Lemos. C-390 Millennium is emerging as a strong contender for India’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) programme, offering a cost-effective, future-ready, and multi-role solution for the Indian Air Force. With its mid-air refuelling capabilities, electronic warfare systems, and adaptability across various missions, the C-390 is positioned to reshape India’s military transport landscape. Embraer’s strategic partnership with Mahindra aligns with Make in India, reinforcing the country’s self-reliance in aerospace manufacturing while enhancing defence collaboration and technology transfer. As Embraer competes for the MTA contract, its comprehensive localization plan, combined with the aircraft’s versatility and affordability, strengthens its appeal as the best choice for India’s evolving defence needs. Confident in its ability to outpace competitors, Embraer is committed to ensuring that the C-390 meets India’s operational, logistical, and technological requirements, while also integrating into the global supply chain.

As told to Sangeeta Saxena