The presentation highlights Embraer’s intention to deepen its partnerships with Poland’s aerospace and defence sector. The KC-390 Millennium, a next-generation transport aircraft designed for demanding airlift and aerial refuelling missions, was introduced at WZL-2 as part of plans to expand cooperation in aircraft support and maintenance.
Douglas Lobo, Vice President Customer Support & Aftermarket Sales at Embraer Services & Support, said the milestone demonstrates the shared objectives of both companies. “Today’s event materializes Embraer’s and WZL-2’s shared vision for innovation and collaboration in the defense industry,” he said.
He added that closer cooperation with Poland’s defence sector could generate long-term benefits for both sides. “By working closely with the Polish defense industry, we aim to create a robust cooperation, fostering long-term value for the country while contributing to the European defense community.”
The partnership between Embraer and WZL-2 focuses on establishing maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities for the KC-390 Millennium in Poland. According to the companies, this initiative is intended to improve operational readiness of the aircraft while also developing local industrial expertise.
Jakub Gazda, Chief Executive Officer of WZL-2, said the introduction of the aircraft represents an opportunity to expand the company’s technological capabilities. “Today, we are gathered here at WZL-2 to admire the KC-390 aircraft, which combines innovative technical solutions, reliability, and enormous operational potential.”
Gazda emphasised that cooperation with Embraer could support knowledge transfer and technological development within Poland’s aviation sector. “Cooperation with Embraer opens up new opportunities for us, giving us what we want to experience — it allows us to exchange knowledge and develop our competencies. I believe that our cooperation will be an important chapter in the history of aviation innovation.”
The KC-390 Millennium has been in operational service with the Brazilian Air Force since 2019, followed by the Portuguese Air Force in 2023 and the Hungarian Air Force in 2024. According to Embraer, the current fleet has demonstrated a mission capability rate of 93 percent and mission completion rates above 99 percent.
The aircraft is designed to perform a wide range of missions, including cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting and humanitarian operations. It can also operate from temporary or unpaved runways such as packed earth, soil or gravel.
With a maximum payload of 26 tonnes, the KC-390 is capable of flying faster and farther than many aircraft in its class. It can also be configured for aerial refuelling missions, operating either as a tanker or as a receiver when equipped with under-wing refuelling pods.
WZL-2, one of Poland’s largest aviation companies, has more than 80 years of experience in the maintenance and modernisation of military aircraft. The company currently supports aircraft operated by the Polish Armed Forces, including the C-130 Hercules and F-16, and is investing in infrastructure, technology and personnel to expand its services for domestic and international customers.
