Embraer confirmed at the Singapore Airshow that the first C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft destined for the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) has entered the final assembly phase. The aircraft is now scheduled to undergo production flights before the integration of mission-specific equipment tailored to ROKAF’s operational requirements.
This development follows South Korea’s selection of the C-390 under its Large Transport Aircraft (LTA-II) acquisition program, solidifying Embraer’s entry into the Asian defense market with its first customer in the region.
With the airframe now structurally complete, the focus shifts to installing advanced avionics and defense systems that will enable the aircraft to perform a diverse range of missions, from strategic logistics to humanitarian assistance and peacekeeping operations.
Industrial Cooperation Advances
Beyond the hardware milestone, Embraer emphasized the deepening industrial ties forged through the contract with Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). The collaboration extends beyond a standard buyer-seller relationship, integrating South Korean aerospace firms into Embraer’s global supply chain.
“The progress on the Republic of Korea’s first C-390 Millennium demonstrates both the efficiency and maturity of our production line and the strength of our partnership with DAPA, ROKAF and our Korean suppliers,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. “This aircraft represents advanced multi-mission capabilities and reliability backed by engineering excellence for ROKAF. Additionally, industrial cooperation with Korea is advancing very well and strengthening our global supply chain as we scale up our C-390 production to support global customers.”
The partnership is expected to involve Korean companies in the production of major airframe components and future maintenance services, creating a long-term industrial footprint. As Embraer ramps up manufacturing to fulfill a growing order book—which includes recent contracts with European and Latin American nations—the integration of Korean suppliers is seen as a strategic move to enhance production capacity and supply chain resilience.
The first ROKAF C-390 is on track for delivery following the completion of ground and flight tests, bolstering the nation’s tactical airlift capabilities for decades to come.
