The United Arab Emirates has signed a contract with Embraer for 10 KC-390 Millennium transport aircraft, with options for 10 more, through the Tawazun Council for Defense Support. The deal, described as the largest single sale for the multi-mission aircraft, also includes construction of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) center in the country.
This agreement marks the first entry of the KC-390 into the Middle East region. The UAE Air Force and Air Defense selected the aircraft after an extensive evaluation process, including tests in its operational environment. The KC-390 supports cargo and troop transport, airdrop operations, humanitarian assistance, medical evacuation, operations from unpaved runways, and interoperability with national and allied forces.
Capabilities include a top speed of 988 km/h, 26-ton payload, and range over 5,000 km. Previously, Embraer announced plans in November for a finishing center and MRO facility in Abu Dhabi with space for 20 aircraft, shifting from earlier considerations in Saudi Arabia after that country lost interest in replacing its C-130s.