Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer is considering an ambitious manufacturing model for the C-390 Millennium in India should the aircraft be selected for the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft programme.According to reports citing Embraer sources, an Indian production facility could eventually reach an output of at least 10 C-390 aircraft annually once the manufacturing system reaches full maturity.Such a production rate would represent more than a facility dedicated solely to meeting India’s own transport-aircraft requirement. Instead, the proposed plant could become a regional manufacturing and export centre for the C-390.Embraer has already established a strategic relationship with India’s Mahindra Group. The companies signed an agreement in October 2025 covering cooperation in marketing, industrialization, and the development of India as a potential C-390 production hub.The proposed industrial model could also include local maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities. Such infrastructure would help support aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force while creating a foundation for regional sustainment activities.The export potential is particularly important because a domestic production line could remain active after India’s initial procurement is completed. Several air forces are expected to replace older tactical transport aircraft during the 2030s, potentially creating opportunities for the C-390.The aircraft can carry up to 26 tonnes and is designed for a range of missions, including troop transport, cargo movement, airdrop operations, medical evacuation, search and rescue, and aerial refuelling.Embraer’s international customer base is also expanding. Uzbekistan’s selection of the C-390 in 2026 added another market for the aircraft and established its presence in Central Asia.An Indian manufacturing base could therefore provide Embraer with a strategically positioned production location for future customers across Asia, the Middle East, and potentially Africa.For India, the benefits could extend beyond acquiring transport aircraft. A long-term production programme could encourage local participation in manufacturing, component supply, systems integration, maintenance, and aerospace engineering.The reported 10-aircraft annual target should nevertheless be viewed as a potential mature production capability rather than an approved delivery commitment. Actual output would depend on the final IAF order, supply-chain development, localization requirements, and export demand.The Medium Transport Aircraft competition is therefore potentially significant for both sides. Embraer is not simply presenting the C-390 as an aircraft purchase but as an opportunity to create a larger industrial ecosystem in India.If the proposal progresses successfully, India could eventually produce C-390 aircraft for both domestic service and international customers seeking replacements for aging transport fleets.
