Embraer Completes Delivery of C-390 Fleet to Hungarian Air Force

Embraer Concludes C-390 Millennium Deliveries to the Hungarian Air Force

We have observed a significant milestone in European defense aviation as Embraer officially completed its delivery obligations to the Hungarian Air Force. On November 21, 2025, the second and final C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft was handed over at the Kecskemét Air Base. This event marks the conclusion of a contract originally signed in November 2020, distinguishing Hungary as the first operator globally to possess a fully delivered fleet of these advanced aircraft. The prompt execution of this contract highlights the growing efficiency of Embraer’s production capabilities and the strengthening of defense ties between Brazil and Central Europe.

The arrival of this aircraft is not merely a logistical fulfillment but a strategic upgrade for the Hungarian Defence Forces. The first aircraft, delivered in September 2024, has already been integrated into operations, and with this second addition, the fleet is now at full strength. Both aircraft are stationed with the 59th “Szentgyörgyi Dezső” Air Base. We see this as a critical development for the region, as it provides Hungary with a sovereign strategic airlift capability, reducing reliance on external partners for troop deployment and humanitarian missions.

This delivery comes at a time when nations across Europe are actively modernizing their military hardware to meet evolving security challenges. The successful handover was attended by key figures including Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky, the Hungarian Minister of Defence, and Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. Their presence underscores the high priority placed on this acquisition within the broader scope of Hungary’s national defense strategy.

Operational Capabilities and the World-First ICU Configuration

One of the most distinct features of the Hungarian C-390 fleet is its specialized medical evacuation configuration. We note that these are the first aircraft in the world to be equipped with a roll-on/roll-off Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This modular facility essentially functions as a “mini-hospital” in the sky, allowing medical teams to transport patients requiring full life support. Furthermore, the design includes isolation capabilities to handle patients with infectious diseases safely, ensuring the protection of the flight crew and medical staff. This capability significantly enhances NATO’s medical evacuation resources in the region.

Beyond the specialized ICU module, the aircraft retains the robust multi-mission characteristics that define the C-390 Millennium platform. In a standard medical evacuation role, devoid of the ICU module, the aircraft is capable of transporting up to 74 litters (stretchers) accompanied by eight medical attendants. In terms of performance, the C-390 offers a payload capacity of 26 tons (approximately 57,000 lbs) and a top speed of 470 knots (Mach 0.80). This speed advantage is particularly relevant when compared to legacy turboprop aircraft, allowing for faster response times in critical situations.

The fleet is also fully interoperable with NATO hardware and communications architectures. A key feature for the Hungarian Air Force is the probe-and-drogue Air-to-Air Refueling (AAR) system. This allows the C-390 to function as a tanker, capable of refueling Hungary’s fleet of JAS 39 Gripen fighters as well as other NATO-standard aircraft. Additionally, the aircraft are equipped with Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM), a defensive system designed to protect the transport against heat-seeking missiles, ensuring survivability in hostile environments.

“This aircraft delivers an unbeatable combination of performance, flexibility and reduced life cycle costs, making it the airlift of choice in Europe.”, Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO, Embraer Defense & Security.

Strategic Context: The “Zrínyi 2026” Modernization Program

We must analyze this delivery within the framework of Hungary’s “Zrínyi 2026” Defense and Force Development Program. This massive modernization initiative aims to overhaul the country’s military capabilities by replacing aging Soviet-era hardware with modern, Western-standard equipment. The C-390s were procured to replace the Antonov An-26 fleet, which was retired in 2020. The transition from the An-26 to the C-390 represents a generational leap in range, payload, and avionics, effectively bringing the Hungarian Air Force’s transport capabilities into the 21st century.

The acquisition of the C-390 operates in tandem with other recent procurements under the “Zrínyi 2026” umbrella, such as Leopard 2A7+ tanks, Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, and NASAMS air defense systems. By integrating the C-390, Hungary solidifies its shift toward NATO interoperability. The ability to operate from unpaved or semi-prepared runways further adds to the tactical flexibility of the Hungarian Defence Forces, allowing for operations in austere environments where traditional infrastructure may be compromised or non-existent.

From an industrial perspective, this contract has fostered deeper economic cooperation between Hungary and the aerospace sector. Embraer has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aeroplex, a Hungarian state-owned aerospace company, to qualify it as an Embraer Authorized Service Center (EASC). This agreement ensures that major maintenance can be performed locally, securing long-term support for the fleet. Additionally, Aero Vodochody, a Czech manufacturer with significant Hungarian ownership, produces key components for the C-390, creating a direct industrial link that benefits the Central European economy.

“The arrival of this aircraft represents a real milestone for the Hungarian Air Force… It is in Hungary’s security interest to have strong, well-equipped, modern defence forces, and we are working on that.”, Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky, Hungarian Minister of Defence.

Concluding Perspectives

The completion of the C-390 Millennium delivery to Hungary serves as a case study for successful defense modernization and international industrial cooperation. With the fleet now fully operational, the Hungarian Air Force possesses a versatile asset capable of executing a wide range of missions, from humanitarian aid and medical evacuation to tactical troop transport and aerial refueling. We anticipate that the operational data gathered from Hungary’s usage of the ICU configuration will be of great interest to other current and future operators of the platform.

Looking ahead, this delivery reinforces the C-390’s growing momentum in the global market as a preferred replacement for aging tactical transport fleets. With other nations such as the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, South Korea, and Sweden selecting the platform, the C-390 is steadily establishing itself as a standard within NATO and allied air forces. For Hungary, the focus now shifts to the full operational integration of these aircraft, ensuring they stand ready to support national and alliance security objectives.

FAQ

Question: What makes the Hungarian C-390 fleet unique compared to other operators?
Answer: The Hungarian C-390s are the first in the world to feature a roll-on/roll-off Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This modular configuration allows the aircraft to serve as a flying hospital for critical care patients and includes isolation capabilities for infectious diseases.

Question: How many C-390 aircraft did Hungary purchase?
Answer: Hungary purchased a total of two C-390 Millennium aircraft. The first was delivered in September 2024, and the second was delivered on November 21, 2025, completing the fleet.

Question: What aircraft is the C-390 replacing in the Hungarian Air Force?
Answer: The C-390 Millennium fleet replaces the Soviet-era Antonov An-26 transport aircraft, which the Hungarian Air Force retired in 2020.

Question: Can the C-390 refuel other aircraft?
Answer: Yes, the Hungarian C-390s are equipped with a probe-and-drogue Air-to-Air Refueling (AAR) system, enabling them to refuel the Hungarian JAS 39 Gripen fighters and other NATO-compatible aircraft.

Sources

• Embraer Press Release