The United Arab Emirates Tawazun Council has awarded Embraer a contract for up to 20 C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft for the UAE Air Force and Air Defense, consisting of 10 firm orders and 10 options. The agreement, signed on May 4, 2026, in Abu Dhabi by Tawazun Secretary General Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi and Embraer Defense & Security CEO Bosco da Costa Junior, took place in the presence of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Embraer's global CEO.
This marks the C-390's first entry into the Middle East market and represents the largest international order for the aircraft from a single country. The selection followed extensive testing in UAE environmental conditions, including high temperatures and operations from semi-prepared runways. The deal includes development of local maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities in partnership with a national Emirati company.
The twin-engine jet transport, powered by IAE V2500-E5 turbofans, offers a 26-ton payload, cruise speed of Mach 0.8, and capabilities for cargo and troop transport, airdrops, humanitarian aid, medical evacuation, and interoperability with UAE and allied forces. It fits between the C-130 and A400M in the UAE fleet, providing faster sortie rates for medium-lift missions across regional theaters.
No contract value was disclosed, though estimates based on unit prices of €80-85 million suggest a potential total of €800 million to €1.7 billion if all options are exercised.