Embraer and Northrop Grumman will collaborate to evolve the multi-mission KC-390 Millennium aircraft, to provide advanced tanking capabilities for the United States Air Force and allied nations.
“Northrop Grumman, together with Embraer, is making strategic investments to address the gap in advanced air mobility solutions globally. We’re listening to our customers, particularly in allied nations who seek greater operational autonomy and efficiency, and we’re exploring new technologies that will increase the versatility of the proven KC-390 platform and deliver that greater operational independence our customers need,” Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems, Corporate Vice President and President, Tom Jones, said.
Together, the two companies are addressing the need for agile combat employment through joint investment and a focus on quickly delivering capabilities to the warfighter.
“Together, we will leverage the strengths of two leaders in the defense industry, with a focus on developing a boom refueling system for the KC-390 Millennium so that we can bring the right capability to the U.S. Department of War and other allied nations. The KC-390 is an operationally proven and cost-effective platform that could quickly be added to the U.S. Air Force inventory,” Embraer Defense & Security, President and CEO, Bosco da Costa Junior, stated.
The companies are joining forces to rapidly advance the initiatives required to deliver a next generation air-refuelling system.
This collaboration will aid the development of the KC-390 Multi-Mission Tanker for US and allied air forces.
Key features will include an advanced autonomous aerial refuelling boom, enhanced communications, situational awareness and survivability options, as well as adaptable mission systems.
These improvements will expand the range of aircraft supported by KC-390 refuelling operations and broaden its mission scope in operational environments.