Embraer has delivered the Czech Republic’s first C-390 Millennium transport aircraft just 20 months after the two sides signed the acquisition contract, giving the country’s air force a new tactical airlift capability.
The aircraft was handed over during a ceremony at Prague Kbely Air Base. It is the first of two C-390 Millennium aircraft Prague ordered to modernize its military transport fleet and strengthen interoperability with NATO allies.
Czech Defense Minister Jaromír Zůna said the aircraft will improve the armed forces’ ability for both domestic missions and alliance operations.
“The C-390 will strengthen the readiness, flexibility and operational effectiveness of our armed forces for many years to come,” he added.
Designed as a multi-role military transport aircraft, the C-390 can carry payloads of up to 26 tons and perform cargo transport, troop deployment, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, humanitarian relief, and aerial refueling missions. It is also capable of operating from temporary or unpaved runways.
Czechia’s Air Force Modernization
The C-390 delivery is part of a broader effort by Prague to modernize its air capabilities.
In July, Lockheed Martin’s Polish subsidiary PZL Mielec began manufacturing two Sikorsky S-70 Firehawk helicopters for Czechia through a partnership with Česká letecká servisní and United Rotorcraft.
Based on the Black Hawk, the Firehawk is configured for aerial firefighting and emergency response, featuring a 1,000-gallon (3,785-liter) water tank, retractable snorkel, twin engines, and night-vision capability.
Earlier, in March, Lockheed Martin finalized 11 industrial cooperation agreements tied to the Czech Republic’s F-35 Lightning II acquisition, strengthening local industry participation in the program.
During the same month, TRL Drones introduced a new Ground Control Station designed to coordinate layered counter-drone operations, supporting the country’s broader efforts to enhance integrated air defense capabilities.
