Defense & Military
Knight Aerospace Completes Design Review for Dutch C-390 Medical System
Knight Aerospace finalizes Critical Design Review for aeromedical systems on Royal Netherlands Air Force Embraer C-390 Millennium aircraft, enabling rapid medical evacuation.
This article is based on an official press release from Knight Aerospace.
San Antonio-based Knight Aerospace has successfully completed a Critical Design Review (CDR) for the advanced aeromedical system destined for the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s (RNLAF) new fleet of Embraer C-390 Millennium aircraft.
The milestone, announced in a company statement, marks a significant step forward in outfitting the multi-mission tactical transports with modular, roll-on/roll-off medical facilities. The completion of the CDR confirms that the system’s design is mature and ready to advance to the manufacturing phase.
According to the company, the achievement highlights the ongoing collaboration between Knight Aerospace, Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer, and the Dutch military as they work to deliver life-saving evacuation capabilities.
Moving Toward Production
The successful CDR clears the path for Knight Aerospace to begin production and eventual deployment of the aeromedical evacuation systems. These modular units are designed to function as self-contained “flying emergency rooms,” allowing the C-390 Millennium to be rapidly reconfigured for medical transport and disaster relief missions.
In its official announcement, Knight Aerospace expressed gratitude to its partners for reaching the design milestone.
“This achievement reflects the strong collaboration between teams and confirms the design’s readiness to move forward, bringing us closer to delivering modular Aeromedical Evacuation Systems that support lifesaving missions worldwide,” the company stated.
The company also specifically acknowledged the contributions of Embraer and the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s Materiel and IT Command in finalizing the design requirements.
Background on the C-390 Aeromedical Program
The development of this advanced medical module stems from a broader modernization effort by the Netherlands. In July 2024, the Dutch Ministry of Defense finalized a joint order with Austria for nine Embraer C-390 Millennium aircraft, with five designated for the Royal Netherlands Air Force to replace its aging C-130 Hercules fleet. Industry estimates from Simple Flying indicate deliveries are expected to begin in 2027.
Following the aircraft order, Embraer and the State of the Netherlands signed a contract in June 2025 specifically for the aeromedical evacuation system. Shortly after, Knight Aerospace secured a 20-year partnership with Embraer to serve as the primary supplier of these modular interiors. According to industry estimates published by Port San Antonio and the San Antonio Business Journal, the initial transaction to equip the Dutch C-390s is valued at more than $20 million.
The roll-on/roll-off modules allow for the transport of patients on litters and can support full life-support systems, providing critical care in the air while protecting crew members from contagious diseases.
AirPro News analysis
We view the completion of the Critical Design Review as a crucial technical hurdle that de-risks the integration of Knight Aerospace’s modules into the C-390 Millennium. For Embraer, offering a certified, plug-and-play aeromedical system strengthens the C-390’s appeal to NATO and allied nations looking for versatile tactical airlifters. As European air forces increasingly prioritize rapid medical evacuation and humanitarian response capabilities, the successful deployment of this system with the Royal Netherlands Air Force could serve as a powerful proof of concept for future international sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Critical Design Review (CDR)?
A Critical Design Review is a multi-disciplined technical review that ensures a system can proceed into fabrication, demonstration, and test, confirming that the design meets all performance and engineering requirements.
What aircraft is receiving the new aeromedical system?
The system is being designed for the Embraer C-390 Millennium, a medium-weight, twin-engine jet-powered military transport aircraft. The Royal Netherlands Air Force has ordered five of these aircraft.
Who is building the medical modules?
Knight Aerospace, a company based in San Antonio, Texas, is designing and manufacturing the modular roll-on/roll-off medical systems under a partnership with Embraer.
Sources
Photo Credit: Knight Aerospace