This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.

Embraer Confirms First ROKAF C-390 in Final Assembly at Singapore Airshow 2026

At the Singapore Airshow 2026 today, Embraer announced a significant milestone for its expansion into the Asian defense market: the first C-390 Millennium aircraft destined for the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) has officially entered the final assembly stage. The announcement confirms that production is on schedule following the contract signed in December 2023.

While Embraer showcased a C-390 on static display at the airshow to demonstrate the platform’s capabilities to regional attendees, the company clarified that the specific airframe intended for South Korea is currently being assembled at the production facility in Gavião Peixoto, Brazil. According to the manufacturers, the aircraft will soon proceed to production flights ahead of its scheduled delivery.

Production Status and Delivery Timeline

The update provided at the Singapore Airshow marks a critical step in the Large Transport Aircraft (LTA) II program. Embraer confirmed that once the final assembly is complete, the aircraft will undergo flight testing followed by the integration of mission systems tailored specifically to ROKAF requirements.

Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, highlighted the progress of the program during the event:

The progress of Republic of Korea’s first C-390 Millennium demonstrates both the efficiency and maturity of our production line and the strength of our partnership with DAPA, ROKAF and our Korean suppliers. This aircraft represents advanced multi-mission capabilities and reliability backed by engineering excellence for ROKAF.

According to the program timeline released by Embraer, the first of the three ordered aircraft is scheduled for delivery by December 2026. This keeps the manufacturer on track to fulfill the deal valued at approximately 710 billion won ($544 million), which made South Korea the first Asian operator of the C-390 platform.

Configuration and Technical Specifications

The ROKAF C-390 fleet will feature a configuration distinct from the standard “KC-390” tanker-transport variant often seen in other markets. According to details released regarding the contract, the South Korean units will be configured primarily for transport missions.

Key configuration details include:

• Refueling Capabilities: The initial delivery configuration excludes underwing refueling pods and the aerial refueling probe, though the design retains the ability to retrofit these systems if future mission requirements dictate.
• Avionics Integration: The aircraft will be equipped with Link 16 tactical data links and Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems specifically integrated to meet South Korean military standards.
• Performance: The aircraft is powered by twin IAE V2500-E5 turbofan engines, offering a top speed of 470 knots (approx. 870 km/h) and a 26-ton payload capacity.

This jet-powered configuration was a decisive factor in the LTA II tender, where the C-390 competed against and ultimately defeated the turboprop-driven Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules and the Airbus A400M Atlas.

Industrial Cooperation and Offset Program

A central component of the agreement between Embraer and South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) is a comprehensive industrial offset package. Embraer has committed to integrating South Korean companies into its global supply chain, a move intended to foster mutual growth rather than a simple transactional relationship.

According to the press release and previous contract details, key South Korean partners include:

• ASTG (Aerospace Technology of Global): Responsible for manufacturing key structural parts.
• EMK (EM Korea): Tasked with the production of machined parts.
• Kencoa Aerospace: Supplying assembled structural components.

Additionally, the contract stipulates the establishment of a local MRO center in South Korea. This facility will ensure domestic support for the fleet and potentially serve as a regional hub as Embraer seeks further customers in Asia.

AirPro News Analysis

The confirmation of the ROKAF C-390’s final assembly status is more than a routine production update; it is a strategic signal to the wider Asian market. By adhering strictly to the delivery timeline set for December 2026, Embraer is demonstrating the reliability of its supply-chain, a critical metric for potential customers like India, where Embraer is currently bidding for the Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program in partnership with the Mahindra Group.

Furthermore, the successful integration of indigenous Korean suppliers (ASTG, EMK, Kencoa) validates Embraer’s “partnership” sales model. In a defense market often dominated by rigid Foreign Military Sales (FMS) structures from US manufacturers, Embraer’s flexibility in offering meaningful industrial offsets appears to be a winning differentiator. The operational data generated by the ROKAF fleet, once active, will likely serve as the primary case study for other nations in the region considering a shift from legacy turboprops to jet-powered tactical transport.

Sources:
Embraer Press Release