Embraer delivered the eighth KC-390 Millennium to the Brazilian Air Force in October 2025 — the only example the FAB will receive during the year — following delays linked to payment process difficulties between the Brazilian government and the manufacturer.
The KC-390 program has undergone significant revision since its inception: the original contract called for 28 aircraft, a figure reduced to 22 in 2022 and further cut to 19 units, now scheduled for delivery through 2034. The extended timeline reflects budgetary constraints within Brazil’s Ministry of Defense that have affected the delivery pace.
Operationally, the FAB faces serious availability challenges with its current fleet: in 2026, only two to three KC-390s are flying with regularity, while the remainder are undergoing maintenance or experiencing restrictions. The situation raises concerns given the growing dependence on the KC-390 for humanitarian missions, logistical supply and aerial refueling of the Gripen E.
Despite the domestic difficulties, the KC-390 has built a strong international order book, with operators in Portugal, the Netherlands, Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, Sweden and the UAE — signaling broad international confidence in the platform.
