Czech Republic selects KC-390 tanker-transport aircraft

An artist's impression of the KC-390 in Czech national livery. (Embraer)

The Czech Republic has selected the Embraer KC-390 Millennium for its future aerial refuelling and fixed-wing medium-lift transport requirements.

The Czech Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Brazilian manufacturer announced the selection on 17 October, saying that negotiations for two aircraft will now begin.

“The Czech Republic intends to acquire two aircraft that will significantly increase its airlift capacity, allowing the Czech army to perform missions such as air transport, air assault operations, aerial resupply, medical evacuation, humanitarian aid, air-to-air refuelling, and firefighting with these aircraft,” Embraer said.

“Negotiations have started with the objective of prospective signing [of] an acquisition contract for two aircraft and associated support, which includes a complete training solution for pilots, loadmasters, and technicians; spare parts; and a robust entry-into-operation plan with a local presence of Embraer personnel in [the] country for an initial period.”

At the same time as the announcement, Aero Vodochody said it had signed a memorandum of understanding with Embraer to deepen co-operation as the prime partner on the national programme. “Aero has been co-operating with the Brazilian renowned manufacturer, Embraer, since 2011. It produces significant parts of the [K]C-390 aircraft, including the complete wing leading edge, doors, cargo ramp, and the second part of the [K]C-390 rear fuselage,” Aero Vodochody said.

The latest industrial agreement includes, among other things, a potential increase in Aero's production share in the KC-390 programme, increasing the value of the existing co-operation with Embraer and co-operation in fulfilling specific requirements of the Czech MoD in relation to the country's procurement of the KC-390.