Embraer has delivered the first C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft to the Czech Air Force, just 20 months after the contract signing. The handover took place during an official ceremony at Prague Kbely Air Base, marking a significant milestone for the country’s defense capabilities.
The delivery of this NATO-standard aircraft signals the beginning of a new era for the Czech Armed Forces, enhancing their ability to conduct airlift, humanitarian, and joint alliance operations.
“The C-390 Millennium provides the Czech Air Force with a significant new airlift capability, enabling us to transport heavy and oversized cargo over long distances while strengthening our support for NATO operations and emergency response at home. While the aircraft itself is a remarkable capability, its true strength lies in our people. Their professionalism and dedication are what enable us to put this capability into service,” said Jaroslav Falta, Commander of the 24th Air Transportation Base.
“Today’s delivery of the first C-390 Millennium marks an important milestone for the Czech Armed Forces. This aircraft significantly enhances our ability to transport personnel, equipment and humanitarian assistance, both in support of national requirements and alongside our NATO allies. The C-390 will strengthen the readiness, flexibility and operational effectiveness of our armed forces for many years to come,” stated Jaromír Zůna.
“We are proud to deliver this first aircraft to the Czech Air Force. The Czech Republic has been a valued partner of the C-390 Millennium program from its outset, contributing meaningfully to the aircraft’s development and success. The program has also benefited from the strong and sustained involvement of Czech industry, whose contribution has been instrumental and will continue to grow alongside the program’s success. With the C-390, the Czech Republic will further strengthen its operational capabilities, and Embraer will stand by your side – today, tomorrow, and for decades to come,” added Bosco da Costa Junior.
With this delivery, the Czech Republic joins a growing group of nations operating the C-390 Millennium, reinforcing its role as a leading platform in medium tactical airlift.
Designed as a next-generation military transport aircraft, the C-390 Millennium offers a payload capacity of up to 26 tons, higher speed and extended range compared to others in its class. It is capable of performing diverse missions including cargo and troop transport, airdrops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian operations, even from unpaved runways. The aircraft can also be configured for air-to-air refueling, serving as both tanker and receiver.
In addition to Brazil, several countries including Portugal, Hungary, South Korea, the Netherlands, Austria, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates have selected the C-390, underscoring its growing global adoption and interoperability within allied forces.
