C-390 Millennium

The Embraer C-390 Millennium is a Brazilian military transport aircraft developed to compete in the medium airlift segment long dominated by turboprop transports. It reflects Embraer's commercial-jet engineering base applied to defense mobility: a modern cockpit, jet performance, fly-by-wire architecture, and a cargo system intended for rapid mission changes. The aircraft also appears as the KC-390 when configured for aerial refueling.

The C-390 uses two turbofan engines, a high wing, and a rear ramp to move cargo, vehicles, pallets, paratroopers, or casualties. Its jet speed improves response time over long distances, while its cargo-handling system supports quick reconfiguration. Refueling versions can pass fuel by probe-and-drogue, making the aircraft both an airlifter and a force enabler.

Operationally, the C-390 gives air forces a bridge between older tactical transports and larger strategic airlifters. It can support troop movement, cargo delivery, medical evacuation, firefighting kits, and air-to-air refueling. The aircraft's significance on HiWars is not only its payload but also its export momentum, because it gives non-U.S. customers a modern alternative in the military mobility market.