Greece selects Embraer C-390 aircraft for air transport modernisation
The Greek Ministry of National Defense signed a contract for three Embraer KC-390 Millennium aircraft to enhance airlift and refuelling capabilities.
The Hellenic Ministry of National Defense has signed a contract to acquire three Embraer KC-390 Millennium aircraft, according to the Times of India. The government-to-government agreement between Greece and Portugal includes options for three additional planes, with the first delivery expected in 2027.
The aircraft will be used to improve the Hellenic Air Force's ability to transport cargo and troops, perform air-to-air refuelling, and conduct search and rescue or medical evacuation missions. Greece is the seventh European nation to choose this model, joining countries such as Portugal, Hungary, and the Netherlands.
The Greek decision comes as the Indian defence ministry has issued a request for proposal (RFP) for 60 medium transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This project, valued at nearly Rs 1 lakh crore, aims to replace the Soviet-era An-32 fleet.
The An-32 has been in service for almost 40 years and carries approximately seven tonnes. The new procurement is intended to replace these ageing planes and take over certain roles from the Il-76, which has a 45-tonne capacity.
The C-390 carries 26 tonnes and features fly-by-wire controls. It competes with the Airbus A400M Atlas, which carries 37 tonnes, and the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, which carries over 20 tonnes. The C-130J is currently used by the IAF in Ladakh.
A modern transport fleet is considered a priority for moving troops and equipment near the borders of Arunachal Pradesh and Eastern Ladakh. The final selection for the IAF will likely depend on payload, terrain performance, and service entry speed.