Embraer and Northrop Grumman are jointly developing enhanced air mobility capabilities centred on the KC 390 Millennium, with the aim of delivering an advanced multi mission tanker solution for the United States Air Force and allied nations.
The collaboration brings together Embraer’s aircraft design and production expertise with Northrop Grumman’s systems integration and manufacturing capabilities. The companies state that joint investment will accelerate the development of a next generation air refuelling system aligned with agile combat employment requirements.
Tailored Tanker Logistics
The partnership will focus on evolving the KC 390 into a Multi Mission Tanker variant tailored to US and allied operational needs, while contributing to the shaping of future aerial logistics architectures.
Planned enhancements include an advanced autonomous aerial refuelling boom, upgraded communications, improved situational awareness and survivability options, and adaptable mission systems. According to the companies, these features are intended to expand the range of aircraft supported by KC 390 refuelling operations and widen its operational mission scope.
Filling the Gap
“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,” said Tom Jones, Corporate Vice President and President, Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems.
Embraer Defence and Security President and CEO Bosco da Costa Junior added: “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.”
The KC 390 Millennium is already in operational service with several air forces. The proposed tanker development is positioned as a rapid pathway to augment existing US and allied refuelling capacity with a platform described by the companies as both proven and cost effective.
