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His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), observed the contract signing for the purchase of C-390 Millennium aircraft for the UAE Air Force. The signing took place during his visit to the Tawazun Council for Defense Enablement booth at the „Make it in the Emirates 2026“ event last week.
The contract was signed by H.E. Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of the Tawazun Council for Defense Enablement, and Mr. Bosco da Costa Jr., President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. The Tawazun Council, responsible for promoting and regulating the defense and security sector in the UAE, has concluded a contract with the Brazilian company Embraer for the procurement of ten C-390 Millennium aircraft along with ten additional options. The aim is to enhance the country’s operational airlift capabilities in collaboration with a local defense company.
Comprehensive support and maintenance
As part of the contract, comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, as well as after-sales support services for the C-390 Millennium aircraft, will be developed in cooperation with a national company. Following a thorough analysis and evaluation, including a testing campaign in the operational environments of the UAE, the C-390 Millennium was selected as the most suitable aircraft to meet the critical mission requirements of the UAE Air Force and Air Defense while optimizing operational efficiency and lifecycle costs.
The C-390 Millennium will enable the UAE Air Force and Air Defense to conduct a variety of missions, including the transport of cargo and troops, air drop operations, humanitarian aid, medical evacuations, and operations from unpaved runways. Additionally, seamless interoperability with national resources as well as allied and partner forces will be ensured.
This contract represents the largest international order from a single country for the C-390 Millennium and marks the aircraft’s first success in the Middle East. It underscores the strong alignment with the demanding requirements of modern air forces operating in complex environments.
H.E. Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi stated, „This contract represents a significant enhancement of the UAE’s military airlift capabilities, bolstering readiness and operational efficiency, and enabling the armed forces to effectively conduct a variety of missions in diverse operational environments.“
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, also commented on the contract: „We are proud that the UAE has chosen the C-390 Millennium to enhance its airlift capabilities. This proven aircraft will provide the UAE Air Force and Air Defense with the versatility and performance needed to conduct a variety of missions anytime and anywhere for decades to come.“
