São Paulo – The Middle East countries are among the potential clients for Embraer’s new military jet aircraft, the KC-390. The model’s first prototype was introduced on October 21st and test flights should begin this year. Embraer estimates the model will have a potential market of 70-plus countries, and forecasts that all Middle East nations will be able to purchase the jet, since its features meet local requirements.
In an email interview to ANBA, the director of the KC-390 program, Paulo Gastão, has said this Tuesday (11th) that the new model was designed considering the needs of Arab countries. “On designing the KC-390, special attention was imparted to operating under adverse conditions, including very hot weather, employing state-of-the-art technologies. The interest shown (by the market) proves that the solutions we have chosen live up to the expectations of operators in that region,” said Gastão.
The new aircraft was designed for various types of missions. It can carry and launch cargo and troops, transport bullet-proof vehicles, fight forest fires, refuel other aircraft in flight and rescue wounded soldiers, among others. The model is considered a medium-size aircraft for its category, can land and takeoff on short runways and is amenable to different configurations, depending on the mission at hand.
The KC-390 was designed in partnership by Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force (FAB). According to information from the FAB, total investment in designing the model was R$ 12.1 billion (US$ 4.7 billion). Of those, R$ 4.9 billion (US$ 1.9 billion) concern aircraft development and R$ 7.2 billion (US$ 2.8 billion) will be disbursed by the FAB on the purchase of 28 units. The first one should join the Brazilian Air Force’s fleet in 2016.
Embraer estimates that market demand for the KC-390 should exceed 700 units, and reports that in addition to the order placed by the FAB, letters of intent have been submitted for the purchase of another 32 aircraft. In 2013, the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer announced a partnership with the United States’ Boeing, whereby Boeing will promote the new aircraft and provide support and training in the United States, United Kingdom and Middle East. Embraer has stated, however, that it cannot disclose further details concerning the agreement.
Gastão said the marketing and sales campaign for the new model is already underway. “Judging from the positive reaction we have had from the market, we are hoping to see Middle East operators among our clients for this new aircraft,” he said.
*Translated by Gabriel Pomerancblum
