By joining an existing contract, Sweden secures production slots and ensures faster delivery at lower cost than through individual procurement. The trilateral agreement, signed on 28 March 2025, designates the Netherlands as the lead nation managing the acquisition, with aircraft to be delivered directly from Embraer’s facility near São Paolo, Brazil.
The C-390 Millennium is widely regarded as a next-generation aircraft offering versatility, reliability and cost-effectiveness. With the capacity to carry 26 tonnes of payload, cruise at 470 knots, and operate on unpaved runways, it supports missions including troop and cargo transport, medical evacuation, aerial refuelling, search and rescue, and humanitarian response.
“New tactical aircraft will enhance Sweden’s defence capability,” said Minister for Defence Pål Jonson. “Through joint procurement, we will take delivery more quickly and at a lower cost than procuring the aircraft on our own.”
Peter Sandwall highlighted the strategic value of the acquisition, saying: “We are proud to take a significant step towards the acquisition of this next generation NATO interoperable aircraft. The ability of the C-390 to perform its missions in challenging environments anytime, anywhere, will be a welcome upgrade for Sweden’s defence, ensuring effective operations for the decades to come.”
Embraer underscored the importance of Sweden’s selection, noting the country’s role in boosting European interoperability and long-term support frameworks. “These next-generation aircraft will not only boost Sweden’s military transport efficiency but also leverage existing European synergies in interoperability, training, and life cycle support,” said Bosco da Costa Junior.
Sweden becomes the eighth country to acquire the C-390, which is already in operation with Brazil, Portugal and Hungary, and has demonstrated over 99% mission completion rates and a mission capability rate of 93%. The aircraft has also been selected by Slovakia and the Czech Republic, further cementing its status as a new benchmark in medium military airlift.
The aircraft will be based in Sweden and integrated into the Swedish Air Force’s strategic airlift structure. Final delivery schedules are being negotiated, with Sweden’s units expected to receive priority within Embraer’s production line as part of the joint agreement.
