Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer Defense & Security and India’s Mahindra Group have signed a strategic cooperation agreement for the Indian Air Force’s “Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA)” program. The agreement aims to supply Embraer’s advanced C-390 Millennium transport aircraft to India and establish the country as a production and support hub. The agreement also aims to support India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, which promotes local production and economic self-reliance.
Basis and Scope of the Agreement
The agreement, which was formalized on October 17 with the opening of Embraer’s office at Aerocity in New Delhi, builds upon a memorandum of understanding signed in February 2024at the Brazilian Embassy in New Delhi and which outlined the vision of developing India as a hub for the C-390 Millennium.
As part of this strategic partnership, Embraer and the Mahindra Group will work closely with stakeholders in India to identify opportunities for local production, assembly facilities, supply chain participation, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities. The long-term goal is to position India as a production and support hub for the C-390 Millennium, serving both local and regional needs, should the aircraft be selected for the MTA program.
A Symbol of the Growing Friendship Between the Two Countries
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Bosco da Costa Junior, CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, noted that the agreement marks a significant milestone in the company’s relationship with the Mahindra Group. Junior highlighted the dynamism and world-class standards of India’s aerospace industry, stating that their goal is to jointly provide the Indian Air Force with the most advanced and reliable military transport solution. Junior emphasized that this partnership is more than just an aviation agreement; it reflects their commitment to “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and the growing friendship between Brazil and India.
Vinod Sahay, a member of the Mahindra Group’s Board of Directors, emphasized that the C-390 Millennium is a unique aircraft in terms of capability, efficiency, and versatility. Sahay noted that by deepening this collaboration, they will ensure the C-390 Millennium not only contributes to India’s security but also supports the “Make in India” philosophy and fosters greater self-reliance.
This strategic partnership positions the C-390 Millennium as a strong candidate to meet the Indian Air Force’s need for a Medium-Sized Transport Aircraft, it also paves the way for the development of India’s military aviation ecosystem and the deepening of technological cooperation between Brazil and India.
