Lithuania has closed an anti-corruption investigation into its planned purchase of Embraer C-390 Millennium transport aircraft, clearing one of the main uncertainties surrounding the procurement process. The inquiry, led by the country’s Special Investigation Service, examined how the deal was prepared after questions were raised about the selection process and the timing of outreach to rival manufacturers.
The probe followed Lithuania’s June 2025 decision to choose Embraer for further negotiations on three C-390 aircraft to replace its aging C-27J Spartan fleet. At the time, the defense ministry said the Brazilian-built aircraft best matched the country’s operational requirements. Critics later questioned whether the procurement process had been handled properly, prompting the investigation.
With the case now closed, Lithuania is expected to continue evaluating the acquisition as it weighs transport-aircraft needs against other defense priorities. Officials have also discussed upgrading the current Spartan fleet as a bridge until a new procurement is pursued.