Aviation News – Greece acquires Embraer KC-390 transport aircraft
The Portuguese government authorized the acquisition of three Embraer KC-390 Millennium military transport aircraft on 22 October 2026 for the Hellenic Air Force (HAF, Elliniki Polemiki Aeroporia) under an innovative government-to-government bilateral agreement. The strategic procurement marks a major milestone for European defense cooperation, replacing aging air mobility assets and expanding tactical airlift capacity across the Mediterranean region.
Approved by the Portuguese Council of Ministers on 14 October 2026, the total contract holds an estimated value of €590 million (excluding VAT). The financial breakdown allocates €533 million toward the three airframes and initial logistical support packages, while €57 million covers electronic warfare systems, specialized crew training, long-term maintenance, and overall program management. The direct sale directly leverages Portugal’s expanded procurement mechanism established with aerospace manufacturer Embraer in September 2025.
This bilateral transaction serves as the inaugural operational use of Portugal’s strategic agreement to facilitate KC-390 sales to NATO allies and European partner nations. By securing purchase options for up to ten additional aircraft during its own contract amendment with Embraer, Portugal created a streamlined procurement framework designed to simplify defense acquisitions for partner nations. Greece represents the first country to execute orders through this cooperative channel.
The twin-turbofan KC-390 Millennium offers substantial cargo capacity, rapid deployment speeds, and multi-mission versatility. Designed to execute tactical transport, air-to-air refueling, and humanitarian aid missions, the aircraft operates efficiently from unpaved or short runways. Its advanced fly-by-wire flight control technology drastically reduces pilot workload while maximizing mission precision during dynamic airborne operations.
“This landmark agreement demonstrates the strength of European defense collaboration and highlights the growing trust in the KC-390 Millennium platform as the premier airlift solution for NATO member nations,” stated official defense procurement representatives following the cabinet authorization.
The acquisition modernizes key logistics channels for defense forces operating across Southern Europe and NATO’s eastern flank. The streamlined government-to-government model sets an influential precedent, encouraging further joint defense acquisitions among European partners seeking rapid fleet modernization.
The Hellenic Air Force will integrate the three KC-390 transports into 356 MTM, based at Elefsis air base near Athens. The jet-powered airlifters will progressively replace the nation’s aging Lockheed C-130H Hercules aircraft, delivering enhanced mission readiness and interoperability. As Embraer expands its European footprint, this bilateral milestone reinforces long-term regional air mobility and military readiness.
