UAE Secures Purchase of C-390 Aircraft to Enhance Air Force

His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, observed the signing of a pivotal defense contract for the acquisition of C-390 Millennium aircraft for the UAE Air Force.

This agreement was established during his attendance at the Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement exhibit at the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event.

The contract was executed by Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, Secretary-General of Tawazun Council, alongside Bosco da Costa Jr., President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.

As part of the deal, Tawazun Council has contracted Brazil's Embraer for the purchase of 10 C-390 Millennium aircraft, with the potential to acquire an additional 10 units in due course. This collaboration is aimed at bolstering the UAE’s military airlift capabilities alongside a local defense company.

Additionally, a full Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility will be established in the UAE, complemented by after-sales support for the aircraft.

The UAE Air Force and Air Defense selected the C-390 Millennium following a thorough evaluation process that included rigorous testing under local operational conditions. Factors such as high performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness led to the aircraft's selection.

The C-390 Millennium stands as a next-generation military transport aircraft, designed to execute various missions. It facilitates cargo and troop transport, airdrop operations, humanitarian aid, medical evacuations, and operations from unpaved airstrips. Its design also promotes seamless collaboration with allied forces.

This agreement signifies the largest single-country international order for the C-390 Millennium and marks its significant entrance into the Middle East market.

Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi remarked that this contract will greatly advance the UAE’s military preparedness and enhance its operational capabilities across diverse environments.

Bosco da Costa Jr. also expressed pride in the partnership, emphasizing that the aircraft will provide superior performance and long-term value while fostering a strategic alliance between Embraer and the UAE.

Renowned for its innovative design, operational versatility, and outstanding performance, the C-390 Millennium is regarded as one of the most advanced military airlift aircraft in contemporary defense operations.