Embraer and the Swedish government announced on April 1 the delivery of four delivery of four C-390M transport aircraft to the Swedish Air Force on April 1. Unlike usual, however, Sweden is not buying the aircraft directly from the Brazilian manufacturer, but is joining the existing contract between Austria, the Netherlands and Embraer.
As a reminder: As part of the Farnborough Airshow 2024, Austria and the Netherlands had jointly signed a contract with Embraer for the procurement of a total of nine C-390Ms – five for the Netherlands, four for the Austrian Armed Forces.
As the Dutch Ministry of Defense has now announced, the contract was open to other partners from the outset. Sweden’s accession brings the total number of aircraft ordered to 13, with the Netherlands acting as the so-called “lead nation”, which enables it to negotiate and coordinate on behalf of all participating countries.
The close cooperation is intended to achieve economies of scale in training, maintenance and operation – and thus a noticeable reduction in operating costs per aircraft. All 13 aircraft will be delivered in an identical configuration, which promises additional benefits in terms of joint operation, staff training and the possible temporary replacement of crews.
By joining the existing contract, Sweden will also benefit from shorter delivery times, according to reports from Stockholm. “Through joint procurement, we will receive the aircraft faster and at a lower cost than if we were to procure them on our own. This decision will ensure that the Swedish armed forces have tactical transport aircraft of the highest quality,” said Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson.
The Dutch defense industry also benefits: The final configuration of the C-390M aircraft is carried out by Dutch companies at the Woensdrecht site.
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