Brazilian aerospace company Embraer announced that negotiations with South Africa have progressed regarding the potential acquisition of its C-390 Millennium military cargo aircraft. This follows the aircraft’s second showcase in South Africa.
Embraer expressed optimism about finalizing the deal, noting that South African authorities are moving forward with the necessary steps to select the aircraft for its National Defense Force. However, the company did not disclose how many planes might be sold or the stage of the negotiations.
If confirmed, this would mark the first sale of the C-390 to an African nation. The aircraft is already in use by countries like Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, and South Korea. The C-390, a competitor to Lockheed Martin’s C-130, is considered a suitable replacement for South Africa’s aging fleet.
Earlier this month, Embraer presented the C-390 to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Defense Minister Angie Motshekga at the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition at Waterkloof Air Force Base. Both Brazil and South Africa are members of the BRICS group.
