Embraer has reached another important milestone in the development of the KC-390 Millennium multi-mission military freighter program with the successful conclusion of the aerial refueling qualification between two KC-390 Millennium aircraft, proving, for the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), this new operational capacity of the aircraft.
The in-flight refueling capacity between two aircraft of the same model using inflight refueling underwing “pods” is unique in this category. This allows KC-390 Millennium operators to expand their logistical transport capacity and during search and rescue operations, which increases the autonomy and range of their missions.
The demonstrations were conducted at Embraer’s Gavião Peixoto site in flights with aerial refueling between two aircraft. Pilots and engineers from FAB joined the flights, when the excellent flight qualities of the airplane and the low workload for the crew were demonstrated as a result of the “fly-by-wire” system control laws, which were developed by Embraer specifically for the KC-390.
Since its entrance into service, the KC-390 has proven its excellent performance and capacity as a new-generation multi-mission aircraft. Recently, the four-aircraft fleet operated by the Brazilian Air Force exceeded 2,500 flight hours in operation, being used extensively in operations to fight COVID-19 in Brazil. In addition to FAB, the Portuguese and the Hungarian Air Forces have ordered the aircraft.