Greece KC-390 Millennium Aircraft: Greece has signed a major defence deal with Brazilian aircraft maker Embraer to buy three KC-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. The agreement also gives Greece the option to purchase three more aircraft in the future. The deal is aimed at improving the country’s ability to move troops and military equipment and refuel fighter jets while they are flying.
The agreement was signed on November 2, 2026, through a government-to-government arrangement between Greece and Portugal. The first aircraft is expected to reach the Hellenic Air Force in 2027. The purchase is worth around €590 million and includes equipment, training and support services.
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Greece to Receive First KC-390 Aircraft in 2027
The agreement was signed by officials from the Greek and Portuguese defence ministries in Athens. Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and Portuguese Defence Minister Nuno Melo were present at the signing ceremony.
Under the deal, Portugal will work with Embraer to arrange the supply of the three aircraft to Greece. Portugal will also help Greece prepare for their use. This includes training pilots and maintenance staff at the KC-390 training centre in Beja, Portugal.
The aircraft deliveries will take place in different stages. The first aircraft is expected in 2027, while the next deliveries are planned for 2029 and 2031.
The package is worth approximately €590 million. It covers the aircraft along with electronic warfare equipment, initial training, logistics and technical support. Portuguese teams will also help with production checks and the delivery process. Technical support teams will work in Greece to help keep the aircraft ready for service.
How the KC-390 Will Improve Greece’s Air Force
The KC-390 Millennium is a military aircraft made by Embraer. It can carry troops, vehicles, supplies and other military equipment. It can also drop supplies and paratroopers during operations.
The aircraft can carry up to 26 tonnes of cargo and reach a maximum speed of around 870 km/h. It can also perform air-to-air refuelling. This means it can provide fuel to fighter jets while they are flying. It can also support medical evacuation, search and rescue and disaster relief operations.
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According to the Greek Ministry of Defence, the aircraft can perform both transport and refuelling duties without needing major changes between these roles. Greece also plans to develop the ability to carry out maintenance on the aircraft and its engines within the country. This will reduce the need to send them abroad for repairs.
“We are honoured by Greece’s decision to acquire the KC-390 Millennium. This choice underscores the trust and confidence that leading NATO members place in our aircraft. This very important milestone further solidifies the aircraft’s position as a preferred solution for military airlift among NATO allies. The KC-390’s proven performance, reliability and cost efficiency make it an ideal choice for nations seeking to enhance their operational capabilities,” says Bosco Da Costa Junior, President and CEO, Embraer Defense and Security.
Greece Becomes Seventh European KC-390 Customer
With this purchase, Greece becomes the seventh European country to select the KC-390 Millennium. Other European customers include Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic and Sweden.
Outside Europe, the aircraft has also been selected by the air forces of Brazil, South Korea, Uzbekistan, the United Arab Emirates and Colombia.
