UAE Secures Groundbreaking Deal for C-390 Aircraft Acquisition

Post by : Bianca Hayes

During a significant event at the Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, oversaw the signing of a transformative defense deal for the UAE Air Force involving the C-390 Millennium aircraft.

This contract was finalized while he attended the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event, signifying a strategic move in bolstering the nation's military strength.

Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, Secretary-General of Tawazun Council, and Bosco da Costa Jr., President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, put pen to paper on this landmark agreement.

The deal entails the procurement of 10 C-390 Millennium aircraft, with plans to acquire an additional 10 later. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the UAE’s airlift capabilities, working in tandem with a local defense entity.

Furthermore, a state-of-the-art Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility will be established in the UAE, providing comprehensive after-sales support for the aircraft.

After rigorous evaluations, including extensive tests under local conditions, the C-390 Millennium was selected by the UAE Air Force and Air Defense for its impressive performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

This next-generation military transport aircraft is versatile, suitable for cargo and troop transport, humanitarian missions, medical evacuations, and operations from unpaved surfaces. It also ensures seamless coordination with allied forces.

This agreement constitutes the largest single-country order for the C-390 Millennium and marks its first significant entry into the Middle Eastern market.

According to Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, this partnership will substantially boost the UAE's military readiness and operational capability across various settings.

Bosco da Costa Jr. expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, underscoring the aircraft's robust performance and potential for long-term value, reinforcing the strategic relationship between Embraer and the UAE.

Renowned for its cutting-edge design and operational versatility, the C-390 Millennium stands out as a premier military airlift solution in modern defense frameworks.

May 5, 2026 11:36 a.m. 165

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