Greece has signed an approximately 590-million-euro ($661-million) agreement with Portugal to acquire three Embraer KC-390 Millennium military transport and aerial refueling aircraft, with options for three more.
Under the government-to-government agreement, the Hellenic Air Force is scheduled to receive its first aircraft in the Portuguese NATO configuration in 2027, followed by phased deliveries in 2029 and 2031.
Portugal will oversee production, acceptance, and delivery, and provide operational transition assistance, logistical support, and initial training at its KC-390 training center in Beja.
Although the KC-390 is a Brazilian-developed aircraft designed and manufactured by Embraer, Portugal is an industrial partner in the program, contributing to its production through the domestic aerospace company OGMA.
The acquisition will strengthen Greece’s airlift and aerial refueling capabilities while improving interoperability with NATO and allied forces. It will also provide access to joint European training, maintenance, and logistical support.
“We are honored by Greece’s decision to acquire the KC-390 Millennium. This choice underscores the trust and confidence that leading NATO members place in our aircraft,” Embraer Defense & Security President and CEO Bosco Da Costa Junior said.
“This very important milestone further solidifies the aircraft’s position as a preferred solution for military airlift among NATO allies. The KC-390’s proven performance, reliability, and cost efficiency make it an ideal choice for nations seeking to enhance their operational capabilities.”
KC-390 Millennium
Embraer’s KC-390 Millennium is the aerial refueling-capable variant of the twin-engine C-390 military transport aircraft. The aircraft can carry payloads of up to 26 tonnes, reach speeds of 470 knots (870 kilometers/540 miles per hour), and operate from paved and unpaved runways.
It can transport up to 80 troops or 64 fully equipped paratroopers. Its medical evacuation configuration can accommodate up to 74 stretchers and eight medical personnel.
The aircraft can perform various missions, including cargo and troop transport, aerial refueling, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian operations.
The C-390 Millennium has been selected by several air forces worldwide.
European customers and selected operators include Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, Czechia, Sweden, Lithuania, and Slovakia. Outside Europe, Brazil, South Korea, Uzbekistan, the UAE, and Colombia have also ordered or selected the aircraft.
