Embraer C-390 Millennium Competes for Indian Air Force's 60 Aircraft Transport Contract
The Indian Defence Acquisition Council approved the proposal for 60 medium transport aircraft, with Embraer's C-390 Millennium competing against Airbus and Lockheed Martin. The contract, valued over $2.5 billion, includes 12 ready-to-fly aircraft and 48 to be manufactured locally under the 'Make in India' initiative. Embraer's partnership with Mahindra Group aims to enhance local production and establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) center in India. The final decision is expected in the second half of 2026.

The Indian Defence Procurement Board recommended advancing the acquisition of 60 medium transport aircraft (MTA) for the Indian Air Force (IAF), marking a significant step in the procurement process. Embraer's C-390 Millennium is a leading contender against Airbus's A-400M and Lockheed Martin's C-130J, with the program estimated at over $2.5 billion.
The first 12 aircraft will be purchased ready-to-fly, while 48 will be manufactured in India. Embraer and Mahindra Group signed a strategic cooperation agreement to promote the C-390 and establish a local MRO center.
The C-390 Millennium is already in service with several countries and aims to establish a regional MRO hub in India. The final decision on the contract is anticipated in the second half of 2026.




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