UAE Orders Up to 20 Embraer C-390 Millennium Military Aircraft

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

The United Arab Emirates has significantly bolstered its military airlift capabilities through a major new procurement agreement. According to a joint announcement on May 4, 2026, the Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement has awarded Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer a contract for up to 20 C-390 Millennium aircraft.

The agreement includes 10 firm orders and 10 options, marking a historic milestone for the C-390 program. Based on the official press release, this represents the largest international orders from a single country for the Millennium to date, as well as the aircraft’s first successful sale in the Middle East region.

The contract was officially signed in Abu Dhabi by H.E. Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of the Tawazun Council, and Bosco da Costa Jr., President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. The signing was witnessed by H.H. Sheik Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, alongside Embraer President and CEO Francisco Gomes Neto.

Strategic Expansion for the UAE Air Force

Comprehensive Evaluation Process

The UAE Air Forces and Air Defense selected the twin-engine tactical transport following an extensive evaluation. The press release notes that this process included a rigorous test campaign conducted directly within the UAE’s operational environment to ensure the aircraft could meet critical mission requirements while optimizing lifecycle costs and operational efficiency.

“This contract represents a significant operational enhancement to the UAE’s military airlift capability, strengthening force readiness and operational efficiency, and enabling the Armed Forces to effectively execute a wide range of missions across diverse operational environments,” stated H.E. Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi in the company’s release.

The C-390 Millennium is slated to perform a diverse array of missions for the UAE. Embraer’s official statement highlights capabilities including troop and cargo transport, airdrop operations, medical evacuation, humanitarian assistance, and operations from unpaved runways. The aircraft is also designed for seamless interoperability with allied and partner forces.

Embraer’s Middle East Breakthrough

Establishing Local MRO Capabilities

A key component of the procurement contract is the development of localized support infrastructure. The press release confirms that comprehensive Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, along with after-sales support services for the C-390 fleet, will be established in collaboration with a national Emirati defense company.

“This game-changing, mission-proven aircraft will provide the UAE Air Force and Air Defense with the versatility and performance needed to carry out a wide range of missions anytime, anywhere, for decades to come,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.

Embraer emphasized its commitment to delivering world-class support to the UAE, aiming to build a mutually beneficial, long-term partnership in the region.

AirPro News analysis

We view this contract as a watershed moment for Embraer’s Defense & Security division. Securing a 20-aircraft commitment (10 firm, 10 options) from a technologically advanced and well-funded military like the UAE Air Force provides immense validation for the C-390 Millennium program. Historically, the Middle Eastern tactical airlift market has been dominated by legacy Western platforms. By breaking into this region and establishing local MRO partnerships, Embraer is positioning the C-390 as a formidable, long-term competitor in the global military-aircraft transport sector. Furthermore, the emphasis on localized maintenance aligns perfectly with broader Gulf region strategies to domesticate defense sustainment and engineering capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many C-390 aircraft is the UAE purchasing?
According to the official announcement, the contract includes 10 firm orders and 10 options for the C-390 Millennium.

What types of missions will the C-390 perform for the UAE?
The aircraft will be utilized for cargo-aircraft and troop transport, airdrop operations, humanitarian assistance, medical evacuation, and operations from unpaved runways.

Will the aircraft be maintained locally?
Yes. The agreement stipulates that comprehensive Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities will be developed in collaboration with a national Emirati defense company.

Why is this order significant for Embraer?
This agreement marks the largest international order from a single country for the C-390 Millennium and represents the aircraft’s first successful sale in the Middle East.

Sources

• Embraer Press Release