Sweden Boosts Airlift Capabilities with Four Embraer C-390 Millenniums
Sweden has bolstered its airlift capabilities and European cooperation by signing a contract for four Embraer C-390 Millennium multi-mission airlifters. The signing, which took place on October 6, 2025, at Uppsala Air Base, formalizes Sweden's decision to join a trilateral program with Austria and the Netherlands. The acquisition, part of a broader effort to enhance interoperability and joint procurement in Europe, was welcomed by Sweden's Minister for Defence, Pål Jonson.
The C-390 Millennium, already in service or ordered by several European states, has proven its worth with a reported 93% mission-capable rate and a 99% mission-completion rate. Sweden's order, which includes options for seven more aircraft, will strengthen its airlift capacity, allowing it to carry up to 26 tonnes of payload and cruise at about 470 knots. The aircraft's ability to operate from semi-prepared runways adds to its versatility.
The KC-390 variant's demonstrated aerial refueling capabilities will also benefit Sweden, enabling it to extend the range of its other aircraft. This, coupled with the aircraft's role in the Gripen program through industrial cooperation with Brazil, makes the C-390 a strategic addition to Sweden's fleet.
With the signing of this contract, Sweden joins Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Lithuania in operating or ordering the C-390 Millennium. The aircraft's high mission-capable and mission-completion rates, along with its versatile capabilities, make it an excellent choice for enhancing Sweden's operational efficiency and interoperability with its European partners.
