Abu dhabi: His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, witnessed the signing of a contract to purchase C-390 Millennium aircraft for the UAE Air Force. This event took place during his visit to the Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement's stand at the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event.
According to Emirates News Agency, the contract was signed by Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, Secretary-General of Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, and Bosco da Costa Jr., President and CEO of Embraer Defense and Security. The agreement involves the procurement of 10 firm orders and 10 options for the C-390 Millennium aircraft, aimed at strengthening the country's operational airlift capabilities in collaboration with an Emirati defence company.
Comprehensive Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, along with after-sales support services for the aircraft, will be developed in partnership with a national company. This follows an extensive analysis and evaluation process, where the UAE Air Force and Air Defense selected the C-390 Millennium as the most suitable aircraft to meet critical mission requirements while optimizing operational efficiency and lifecycle costs.
The C-390 Millennium is designed to enable the UAE Air Force and Air Defense to perform a variety of missions, including cargo and troop transport, airdrop operations, humanitarian assistance, medical evacuation, and operations from unpaved runways. It also ensures seamless interoperability with national assets and allied and partner forces.
This agreement marks the largest international order from a single country for the C-390 Millennium and represents the aircraft's first success in the Middle East. Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nauimi stated that the contract enhances the UAE's military airlift capability, strengthening force readiness and operational efficiency.
Bosco da Costa Junior expressed pride in the UAE's selection of the C-390 Millennium to enhance its airlift capabilities, highlighting the aircraft's versatility and performance. He emphasized Embraer's commitment to delivering the C-390 capability and providing support to the UAE, aiming for a long-term partnership.
The C-390 Millennium is considered the next generation of military airlift with its multi-mission capability and interoperability. It consistently demonstrates advanced military airlift capabilities, redefining standards of versatility and reliability.