Brazilian aerospace major Embraer is looking to establish a larger industrial footprint in India around its C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. The company has proposed turning India into a regional production, export and maintenance hub if the aircraft is selected for the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft programme.
The plan goes beyond setting up an assembly line only for Indian requirements. Embraer wants India to become a production base capable of supporting demand from other markets, particularly across the Asia-Pacific region.
Embraer has partnered with the Mahindra Group for the C-390 bid. The companies have been working on local production and support capabilities, including a potential Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility for C-390 operators in India.
The C-390 Millennium is a next-generation multi-mission transport and aerial refuelling aircraft. Embraer says the aircraft can carry up to 26 tonnes and operate from short and unpaved runways, offering higher payload and speed than the C-130J.
The IAF’s MTA programme is aimed at replacing its ageing Soviet-origin AN-32 and IL-76 transport fleets. The proposed procurement could involve around 80 aircraft, making it a significant opportunity for global aerospace manufacturers and India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
If selected, the Embraer-Mahindra partnership could give India a larger role in the C-390 global supply chain, while creating opportunities for local manufacturing, exports, engineering and long-term aircraft support.
