Slovakia has selected Embraer’s C-390 Millennium as its new military transport aircraft, marking a significant step in modernizing the country’s airlift capabilities.
In a recent press release, the company confirmed that Bratislava had already acknowledged the C-390 as the best fit for its future military transport needs.
The European nation also highlighted the importance of boosting interoperability with neighboring countries already operating the C-390.
“The C-390 is currently the best aircraft in its category due to its cost efficiency, versatility, and reliability, being able to perform the most demanding missions anytime, anywhere,” Embraer President Bosco da Costa Junior stated.
Slovakia is expected to begin formal procedures to acquire three C-390s in the first quarter of 2025.
‘Aircraft of Choice’
The C-390 Millennium is a new generation multi-mission aircraft, designed to carry up to 26 metric tons (57,320 pounds) of cargo.
Powered by two high-bypass turbofan engines, it boasts a range of up to 6,019 kilometers (3,740 miles) and can reach 470 knots (870 kilometers/540 miles per hour).
Its spacious cabin can accommodate 64 fully-equipped paratroopers, making it ideal for rapid deployment in aerial assault operations.
In addition to troop and cargo transport, the Millennium can be reconfigured for aerial refueling, aeromedical evacuation, and search and rescue missions.
With these capabilities, Embraer said the C-390 is quickly becoming an aircraft of choice among European nations, particularly NATO member states.
“We are confident that the C-390 is the most suitable aircraft to meet the needs of the Slovak Air Force,” Da Costa Junior noted.
The C-390 is already operational with Portugal and Hungary, while orders have been placed by Sweden, Austria, the Czech Republic, and the Netherlands.