Embraer and the Mahindra Group have unveiled plans to establish a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capability in India for the C-390 Millennium, should the aircraft be chosen for the country’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program.
The proposal builds upon a strategic cooperation agreement signed last year that explored opportunities for local manufacturing of the C-390 in India. This latest initiative centers on creating in-country sustainment and support infrastructure, aligning with India’s broader push to strengthen domestic aerospace production and reduce dependence on overseas maintenance services.
If realized, the facility would provide comprehensive maintenance solutions, including heavy and base maintenance, component repairs, avionics servicing, and technical training. While primarily intended to support a potential Indian Air Force fleet, the partners are also evaluating India’s potential role as a regional MRO hub for other C-390 operators.
Embraer’s Presence in India
Embraer maintains a significant footprint in India across commercial, business, and defense aviation segments, with approximately 50 aircraft currently in service nationwide.
In defense operations, the ERJ145 platform underpins the Indian Air Force’s Netra airborne early warning and control aircraft, configured for surveillance and command missions. Additionally, Legacy 600 business jets are operated by the Indian Air Force and various government agencies for official transport duties.
About the C-390 Millennium
The C-390 is a twin-engine, medium-lift military transport aircraft designed for cargo and troop transport missions. It is capable of supporting airdrop operations, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, humanitarian missions, and air-to-air refueling.
With the ability to operate from semi-prepared runways, the aircraft can carry payloads of up to 26 metric tons. It has a maximum cruise speed of 470 knots (870 km/h) and an operational ceiling of 36,000 feet (approximately 11,000 meters).
