The first C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft for the Czech Air Force was delivered by Embraer on 16 July 2026 during an official ceremony at the 24th Transport Air Force Base in Prague-Kbely.
The delivery came just 20 months after the signing of the acquisition agreement; the Czech Air Force ordered two C-390s in October 2024 under a CZK 11.3 billion (EUR 470 million) contract.
“The C-390 Millennium provides the Czech Air Force with a significant new airlift capability, enabling us to transport heavy and oversized cargo over long distances while strengthening our support for NATO operations and emergency response at home,” Brigadier General Jaroslav Falta, Commander of the 24th Transport Air Force Base, was quoted as saying in an Embraer press release. “While the aircraft itself is a remarkable capability, its true strength lies in our people. Their professionalism and dedication are what enable us to put this capability into service,” he added.
Czech Defence Minister Jaromír Zůna stated at the delivery ceremony, “Today’s delivery of the first C-390 Millennium marks an important milestone for the Czech Armed Forces. This aircraft significantly enhances our ability to transport personnel, equipment and humanitarian assistance, both in support of national requirements and alongside our NATO allies. The C-390 will strengthen the readiness, flexibility and operational effectiveness of our armed forces for many years to come.”
C-390 capabilities
The C-390 Millennium can carry more payload (26 tonnes concentrated) compared to other medium-sized military transport aircraft and flies faster (870 km/h). By comparison, a Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules has a maximum payload of 21.7 tonnes and a maximum cruising speed of 657 km/h.
The C-390 can achieve a range of 2,000 km with a 26-tonne payload or 5,000 km with a 14-tonne payload. However, when configured with air-to-air refuelling equipment, when it is designated the KC-390, a Millennium can both dispense fuel and receive it from another KC-390, extending its range.
Czech C-390s will also feature a MAFFS II aerial firefighting module with a capacity of up to 12,000 l of water (the largest water bag for the Czech Air Force’s Mi-17 helicopters only holds 3,000 l).
Besides the Brazilian Air Force, the C-390 has also now been selected by the air forces of Portugal, Hungary, South Korea, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, Uzbekistan, Sweden, the United Arab Emirates, Slovakia and Lithuania.
