Morocco has just strengthened its military aviation with the acquisition of the Brazilian Embraer C-390 Millennium tactical transport aircraft, joining a growing group of users. This decision marks a turning point in the logistical and operational capabilities of the Royal Air Forces.
Morocco has just joined the users of the C-390 Millennium, the tactical transport aircraft designed by Embraer, the Brazilian manufacturer. This adoption follows a series of evaluations carried out in March 2024, when one of these aircraft, registered PT-ZNG and belonging to the Brazilian Air Force, was tested in Rabat. The evaluation process was preceded by a visit, in January 2024, of a delegation from the Royal Air Forces (FRA) to Portugal, where part of the aircraft is manufactured in the facilities of the company OGMA, a subsidiary of Embrace.
Morocco’s inclusion in the list of countries operating the C-390 was made public at a recent conference hosted by Embraer, where the Moroccan flag appeared on a presentation slide. This new user joins a group already formed by countries such as Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, South Korea, Austria, the United Arab Emirates and Chile. Other countries, such as Argentina, Colombia and Rwanda, have also expressed interest through letters of intent.
The C-390 Millennium, which will gradually replace the old C-130 Hercules in service with the Royal Moroccan Air Force, is an important asset for the country’s logistical and tactical operations. Advanced negotiations with Embraer for the local manufacture of the aircraft are underway, thus strengthening technological cooperation between the two countries.
To date, the Moroccan army has a transport fleet composed of four C-27J Spartans, 16 C-130H Hercules, as well as six CASA CN-235s. One of these Hercules is configured for electronic intelligence (SIGINT) missions while two others serve as tanker aircraft. The addition of the C-390 will allow Morocco to modernize its airlift capabilities and meet the growing needs for logistical support.
The Brazilian C-390 Millennium aircraft is a multi-role aircraft, capable of carrying up to 26 tons of cargo, while reaching a cruising speed of 470 knots (approximately 870 km/h). Its modular design allows for rapid reconfiguration depending on mission needs. It is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, including the Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion and a SELEX Galileo tactical radar. The aircraft’s cargo hold, measuring 18.5 meters long, 3.45 meters wide and 2.95 meters high, provides ample space for a variety of operations. Capable of reaching a cruising speed of Mach 0.8, the C-390 is an ideal solution for medium-sized airlift needs.
