Why has Sweden chosen the C-390 as its preferred aircraft?

Sweden has taken a significant step in modernizing its air force by officially committing to acquiring four KC-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft from Embraer.

This high-value deal, worth several billion Swedish kronor (SEK), secures production slots for the aircraft, marking Sweden’s entry into the elite group of nations operating this next-generation military transporter.

The announcement was made during the LAAD Defence & Security 2025 event in the presence of Peter Sandwall, State Secretary to Sweden’s Minister for Defence, and Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.

Sweden now joins the Netherlands and Austria in the C-390 program, further strengthening European cooperation in military aviation.

A Game-Changer in Military Airlift

The KC-390 Millennium is redefining tactical airlift with its unparalleled versatility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Designed to handle multiple missions, it has been acquired by eight countries, including Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, South Korea, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, and an undisclosed customer. Sweden and Slovakia have now also selected the aircraft to modernize their military transport capabilities.

In November 2024, Sweden’s Ministry of Defense officially selected Embraer’s C-390 Millennium as its next tactical transport aircraft, marking a major boost to Sweden’s defense capabilities.

This acquisition is the first C-390 order from a Northern European country, reflecting Sweden’s commitment to enhancing its military readiness with advanced technology. The C-390’s selection is especially significant as it aligns Sweden with other NATO members turning to Embraer for military transport needs.

Superior Performance and Multi-Mission Capability

The embraer c-390 outperforms traditional medium-sized military transport aircraft with its higher payload capacity (26 tons), superior speed (470 knots), and extended operational range. Its versatility enables it to execute a variety of missions, including:

• Cargo and troop transport
• Aerial and ground medical evacuations
• Search and rescue operations
• Firefighting missions
• Humanitarian aid delivery
• Operations from temporary or unpaved runways, such as packed earth, soil, and gravel

Additionally, the KC-390 features an advanced air-to-air refueling system. It has successfully demonstrated its capability both as a tanker and a receiver, refueling from another KC-390 via wing-mounted pods.

Sweden’s Strategic Investment in Airlift Capability

By choosing the KC-390, Sweden secures a state-of-the-art platform that enhances its strategic and tactical transport capabilities. This acquisition ensures Sweden’s military remains at the forefront of operational readiness, aligning with its defense modernization goals.

With Sweden now onboard, the KC-390 program continues to expand its global footprint, reinforcing its position as a next-generation solution for military air mobility. The deal further cements Embraer’s growing influence in the European defense sector while strengthening Sweden’s ability to respond to evolving security challenges.