The Brazilian aerospace company Embraer has officially commenced production of the C-390 Millennium airlifters contracted by the Swedish Air Force. This decision follows Sweden’s formal procurement of four C-390 aircraft, with options for an additional seven units under a joint procurement framework led by the Netherlands. The announcement marks a significant step in Sweden’s efforts to replace its aging C-130H fleet, a move that has implications for both operational capability and international defense partnerships.
The production milestone was achieved at Embraer’s facility in Gaviao Peixoto, where the first metal cutting for the initial airframe took place on October 28, 2025. This development underscores the growing defense cooperation between Brazil and Sweden, further strengthened by their collaboration on the Gripen fighter program. The C-390 is expected to enhance Sweden’s airlift capabilities with its higher payload capacity, improved speed, and multirole functionality.
Key Developments in Swedish Procurement
Sweden’s decision to order the C-390 reflects a strategic shift in its defense procurement process. The formal contract for the four aircraft was solidified after Sweden’s selection of the C-390 in 2024, with additional agreements finalized in April 2025 for production slots. The joint procurement initiative, which includes participation from Austria and the Netherlands, aims to standardize maintenance and operational support across fleets, thereby enhancing efficiency and lowering lifecycle costs.
According to reports from Reuters, this deal not only positions the C-390 as a replacement for the C-130H but also aligns with Sweden’s broader defense strategy to modernize its air transport capabilities. The collaborative nature of this procurement is likely to streamline configuration control, training, and logistics, benefiting operational readiness within NATO frameworks.
Implications for Embraer and Sweden
For Embraer, securing a NATO customer like Sweden enhances the company’s order book and strengthens its position in the European market, previously bolstered by contracts with countries such as Portugal, Hungary, and the Netherlands. The addition of Sweden’s order brings renewed investor interest, with share prices for Embraer experiencing a notable increase following the announcement of the contract.
The C-390’s operational advantages for Sweden include faster response times for tactical missions, greater payload capacities, and adaptable configurations for roles such as aeromedical evacuation and air refueling. This flexibility is crucial for enhancing Sweden’s military readiness in both regional and expeditionary missions, particularly in the Nordic region and the North Atlantic.
Moreover, the production of the C-390 signifies a substantial investment in the Brazilian aerospace sector, building on Sweden’s previous commitments to purchase Gripen fighters. Politically, the early production stage provides a tangible milestone that government officials can showcase as evidence of effective use of taxpayer funds, reinforcing public support for defense spending.
Overall, the commencement of C-390 production not only highlights the strengthening ties between Brazil and Sweden but also showcases the growing importance of international collaboration in defense procurement. As the C-390 program advances, it is poised to play a pivotal role in modernizing Sweden’s air force capabilities while enhancing operational interoperability within NATO alliances.
