Embraer, a prominent name in the aerospace industry, is set to present its KC-390 Millennium at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) from May 20 to 24, 2025. This event marks the aircraft's debut at LIMA and underscores Embraer's expanding presence in Southeast Asia's defense sector.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, expressed enthusiasm about showcasing the KC-390 at LIMA 2025. He stated, "Embraer is proud to bring the KC-390 to LIMA 2025. It is a new generation military airlift with multi-mission capability, interoperability, reliability, low life-cycle cost, and high performance at its core."
The KC-390 Millennium has been operational since 2019 and is noted for its advanced capabilities in medium transport aircraft. It can fly faster and carry more cargo than other similar-sized military aircraft. The plane supports various missions including cargo transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue operations, humanitarian efforts, firefighting, and air-to-air refueling.
Designed for diverse terrains and climates in Southeast Asia, the KC-390 can operate on temporary or unpaved runways under different environmental conditions. It features a comprehensive suite of sensors and communication equipment for connectivity between aircraft and ground troops.
The aircraft boasts a mission accomplishment rate of 99% with low operational costs. Its design enables it to be ready for various mission profiles required by Air Forces globally. Countries such as Brazil, Portugal, Hungary have already incorporated it into their fleets. Orders have also been placed by South Korea, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic among others.
In Southeast Asia specifically, Embraer's defense forces are active in Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia with aircraft like the A-29 Super Tucano used for close air support and training missions.
Embraer supports its customers in the region through personnel stationed across Asia-Pacific along with facilities like its main office and Regional Distribution Centre located in Singapore.
Since its inception in 1969, Embraer has delivered over 9,000 aircraft worldwide. Known as a leading manufacturer of commercial jets up to 150 seats capacity and Brazil's main exporter of high-value goods; Embraer continues to expand its global footprint across multiple continents.
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