KC-390 vs C-130J? Embraer Pitches Jet-Powered ‘Game Changer’ As India Eyes 80 New Military Transport Aircraft

As the Indian Air Force (IAF) moves closer to a multi-billion dollar decision on acquiring up to 80 medium transport aircraft (MTA), Brazilian aerospace major Embraer has stepped up its pitch for the KC-390 Millennium, a new NATO favorite, positioning it as a next-generation tactical airlifter and a potential cornerstone of India’s future air mobility fleet.

In New Delhi as part of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s delegation, Embraer President and CEO Francisco Gomes Neto described the KC-390 as the “best multi-mission workhorse” for the IAF, underlining its NATO adoption, jet-powered performance and industrial partnership model for India.

Why is India looking for 80 new transport aircraft?

Around four years ago in 2022, the IAF had issued a Request for Information (RFI) to replace its ageing Soviet-era AN-32 and IL-76 fleet. The proposed acquisition of around 80 medium transport aircraft is expected to significantly enhance India’s tactical and strategic airlift capability.

The contenders include Embraer KC-390 Millennium, Airbus A400M, Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules. India already operates 12 C-130J aircraft, but the new procurement is expected to redefine the IAF’s medium-lift doctrine for decades.

What makes Brazil’s KC-390 different?

Emerging as a top pick of several NATO members, KC-390’s jet power is at the heart of Embraer’s pitch is one key differentiator. Unlike the turboprop-powered C-130J, the KC-390 is powered by jet engines offering 26-ton payload capacity (compared to ~20 tons for the C-130J), cruise speed of 470 knots, 25–30% faster operational performance, lower operational costs per mission, according to Embraer.

The aircraft is also capable to operate from short and unpaved runways. “The aircraft carries more loads, it is faster, it can go further. You can have fewer aircraft to do the same missions,” Neto said.

Designed as a 21st-century multi-mission platform, the KC-390 combines tactical airlift, aerial refuelling, troop transport, cargo missions, humanitarian relief and medical evacuation in a single airframe.

How strong is its NATO backing?

Embraer is leveraging a wave of European acquisitions to bolster its case. The KC-390 has been selected by multiple NATO member states, including Portugal, Sweden, Netherlands, Hungary, Czech Republic. According to Neto, nine European countries have chosen the platform, calling it “NATO’s best choice.”

By opting for the KC-390, Embraer argues, the IAF would align with a rapidly expanding group of interoperable, modern air forces, strengthening joint operational compatibility.

Is the KC-390 a strategic counter to the C-130J?

For decades, Lockheed Martin’s C-130 platform has dominated the global tactical airlift market. Embraer is positioning the KC-390 as a generational shift. Key competitive claims include higher payload capacity, greater speed and range, modern digital avionics, reduced lifecycle costs, enhanced tactical flexibility.

Interestingly, Neto highlighted that more than 50% of the KC-390’s components are American-made, reinforcing its compatibility within Western supply chains.

What is Embraer offering India beyond the aircraft?

Beyond performance metrics, Embraer’s pitch carries a strong industrial dimension. If selected, the company plans to, establish India as its primary production hub for Asia-Pacific, set up an exclusive regional MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) hub, and maximise indigenous content.

The Brazil aerospace giant also seeks to expand long-term defence and civilian aerospace cooperation. Neto said a KC-390 production line in India could serve broader Asia-Pacific demand, aligning with India’s “Make in India” and defence export ambitions.

In 2024, Embraer partnered with Mahindra to bid for the MTA programme. Separately, it signed an enhanced MoU with Adani Defence & Aerospace to establish a Final Assembly Line (FAL) for the E175 regional jet under India’s Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA) programme.

How does KC-390 fit into India-Brazil ties?

With India and Brazil deepening strategic engagement across sectors, Embraer sees the KC-390 as a long-term anchor project. “We believe a project like the KC-390 fits better with a long-term vision,” Neto said, describing it as a choice between a new-generation platform and legacy aircraft introduced decades ago.

The proposal reflects not just a procurement contest but a potential aerospace ecosystem partnership spanning manufacturing, supply chains, pilot training and aftermarket services.