The Czech Ministry of Defense has officially committed to acquiring two Embraer C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft, marking a significant step in enhancing the Czech Air Force’s strategic capabilities. This acquisition places the Czech Republic alongside several NATO allies who have chosen the C-390 to bolster their defense fleets, reflecting confidence in the aircraft’s versatility and performance.
As stated by Czech Defence Minister Jana Černochová, recent global operations—from humanitarian extractions in Afghanistan to crisis responses in Sudan—highlight the need for an airlift capability that combines range, speed, and capacity. “It’s clear that today’s military demands the ability to transport both personnel and heavy cargo across considerable distances,” said Černochová. “The addition of the C-390 to our fleet allows us to meet these demands efficiently.”
The plan outlines the delivery of the first two units to the Czech forces by next year. Notably, the deal goes beyond procurement; it strengthens local industry ties, as Czech manufacturer Aero Vodochody, already involved in producing C-390 components, will see increased involvement under a new Industrial Cooperation Agreement signed with Embraer this October. The overall value of the program is pegged at over $82 million, underscoring a strategic investment in both defense and domestic aerospace.
This partnership not only bolsters Czech national defense but further reinforces Embraer’s growing footprint across NATO. Embraer’s CEO, Bosco Da Costa Junior, emphasized that this acquisition reflects Embraer’s commitment to innovation in defense technology. “NATO’s endorsement through the Czech order speaks volumes about the operational reliability and performance of our aircraft,” Da Costa Junior stated. “By engaging the Czech aerospace sector in production, we’re solidifying our ties with a region that has long been renowned for its expertise and high standards.”
With a maximum payload capacity of 26 metric tons and advanced systems enabling tasks such as medical evacuation, air-to-air refueling, and even firefighting, the C-390 has earned a reputation as a reliable, multi-role asset. Its durability and capabilities in adverse conditions—including takeoff and landing on rough runways—make it a formidable addition to any air fleet. With a mission capability rate of 93% and a mission completion rate of over 99% after logging 15,000 flight hours globally, the C-390 Millennium has proven itself as a dependable asset across diverse mission profiles.
The Czech Republic joins NATO members the Netherlands, Hungary, and Portugal, as well as nations like Austria, Brazil, and South Korea, in selecting the C-390, making it one of the most widely chosen airlift solutions among allied forces. This decision not only marks a milestone for the Czech Air Force but further establishes Embraer as a global leader in military air transport, setting new standards for both mission flexibility and reliability.
