The Czech Ministry of Defense has announced the purchase of two C-390 aircraft Millennium, for a value of €446 million. The measure will increase the army's medium transport capacity, as well as provide resources for evacuation, resupply and firefighting.
Manufactured by Embraer, the C-390 Millennium will enable the Czech military to increase its capabilities for heavy transport, crisis evacuation and participation in military and humanitarian missions on the international stage.
“The Czech Army has a long-term need to strengthen its ability to transport heavier and bulkier loads over longer distances or to ensure the transportation of people from crisis areas” explained Jana Černochová, Minister of Defense, stressing that the worsening global security makes the purchase of these aircraft urgent, with the first of them expected to be in operation next year.
“Recent evacuations from Afghanistan and Sudan have highlighted the need for enhanced airlift capabilities”, added Černochová.
A key component of the agreement is the Industrial Cooperation Agreement (ICA) between the Czech Ministry of Defense and Embraer, which will include local industry participation in the manufacture and maintenance of the C-390. Millennium. The contract, valued at over €74 million, will benefit Czech companies such as Aero Vodochody Aerospace and LOM Prague.
A Aero Vodochody, a participant in the C-390 program since 2011, manufactures components such as the rear fuselage, doors, cargo ramp and leading edges. With the new agreement, its role will be expanded, increasing production of parts in the Czech Republic and generating local jobs. LOM Prague, a state-owned company, will be responsible for managing the life cycle of the C-390, acquiring experience in the maintenance of new-generation military transport aircraft.
The Czech Air Force currently operates a fleet of smaller transport aircraft, including six CASA C295Ms and four Let L-410s. Turbojets, manufactured in Brazil.
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