Embraer and Mahindra's partnership will lead to the manufacturing of the C‑390 Millennium aircraft in India. This fast, reliable aircraft with a 26-ton payload capacity will replace the older An‑32 for the Indian Air Force and promote ‘Make in India.’
C-390 Millennium: Defense cooperation between India and Brazil has taken a new turn. Under a partnership between Mahindra Defence Systems and Embraer, a leading Brazilian aerospace company, the modern C-390 Millennium medium transport aircraft will now be manufactured in India itself. This partnership will not only provide the Indian Air Force with a modern platform, but also strengthen the 'Make in India' initiative.
Indian Air Force to get a new transport platform
The C-390 Millennium is a state-of-the-art and multi-purpose transport aircraft developed by Brazil. This aircraft is currently in service with the Brazilian and Portuguese Air Forces. Its introduction in India will enable it to replace transport aircraft like the older An-32 of the Indian Air Force. This aircraft is capable of quickly transporting soldiers, weapons, vehicles, and medical aid from one place to another.
Features of the C-390 that make it special
The C-390 Millennium can carry a maximum payload of 26 tons. In comparison, the American C-130J Super Hercules aircraft can only lift a payload of 20.2 tons. This makes the C-390 a better option. The aircraft can carry two M113 armored vehicles, a Boxer vehicle, an H-60 helicopter, 80 soldiers, or 66 paratroopers with all their gear.
Its maximum speed is 870 km per hour. It can fly 1,852 kilometers with a 26-ton payload. Two powerful IAE V2500-E5 turbofan engines make it fuel-efficient and reliable.
Multi-mission aircraft: Capable of more than one task
The C-390 is suitable not only for transport but also for many types of military and humanitarian missions. These include air-to-air refueling, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian relief missions. It can also operate from temporary and unpaved airstrips.
A special variant of it, the C-390 IVR (ISR – Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance), is designed for maritime surveillance and disaster management. It is equipped with synthetic aperture radar, electro-optical sensors, and modern communication systems.
Indian defense sector to get many benefits
The Indian Air Force will get a modern, fast, and reliable alternative to the older aircraft. Furthermore, the deployment of this aircraft is possible in high-altitude areas like Ladakh. Its high speed and long range will prove useful for delivering supplies in border areas.
Make in India and India's direction towards becoming an export hub
The C-390 will be manufactured in India under the partnership between Mahindra and Embraer. The final assembly line will be established in India. This will promote high-value manufacturing in the country and increase employment opportunities.
Along with this, there is also a plan to make India a production and supply hub for this aircraft in the Asia-Pacific region. It can be exported to countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.
Technology transfer and assistance in indigenization
With this agreement, India will benefit from technology transfer. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) can work with Embraer on radar, avionics, and electronic warfare systems. This will boost India's domestic defense technology.
The cost of the C-390 is estimated to be around $140 to $160 million per unit. This is cheaper than the American C-130J. Its operational costs are also lower, which will make it economical for the Indian Air Force in the long run.
India's global position will be strengthened
With the C-390 having the ability to refuel in the air, fighter jets of the Indian Air Force will be able to fly long distances. This aircraft can also play an important role in humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions. This will strengthen India's global image as a responsible and capable nation.
