President & CEO, Embraer Defense & Security
Embraer, with over 55 years of innovation, has become a global leader in aerospace, delivering cutting-edge solutions for both commercial and business aviation. With 9,000 aircraft delivered to over 100 countries and a portfolio of over 800 patents, Embraer continues to drive innovation in the aerospace industry. “Asia Pacific is a crucial market for Embraer Defense & Security. We aim to secure contracts for C-390 Millennium aircraft, A-29 Super Tucano, and integrated defence systems in Vietnam in the near future,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO, Embraer Defense & Security. In an interview with Aeromag, he emphasized Embraer’s unwavering commitment to maintaining its global leadership and expanding its presence in the international market.
Could you talk about Embraer’s participation in the Vietnam International Defence Expo 2024 and what key innovations or products the company plans to showcase?
Embraer is here in Vietnam with a powerful message: innovation, partnership, and a commitment to supporting the nation’s growing aerospace ambitions. This is evident in our participation in the Vietnam International Defence Expo 2024, where we are proud to showcase our latest advancements in aerospace technology.
Embraer recognizes Vietnam as a strategically important market with significant potential for growth. We are committed to supporting the development of its aerospace and defence sector and are particularly interested in collaborating on projects related to aircraft acquisition, air and ground crew training, and the establishment of industry partnerships. Our presence at this expo reflects our dedication to Vietnam, and we congratulate the Vietnam People’s Army on its 80th anniversary.
We are excited to share and discuss the capabilities of our C-390 Millennium multi mission transport aircraft and the A-29 Super Tucano light attack, reconnaissance, and advanced training aircraft with visitors.
This engagement builds on a recent meeting between Prime Minister Pham Minh Chính and Embraer on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, further strengthened by growing relations between Brazil and Vietnam.
The C-390 Millennium has been selected by Sweden as its new military cargo aircraft. What are the standout features and characteristics of the C-390 that make it unique in the global defence market?
The recent selection of the C-390 Millennium by Sweden as its new military cargo aircraft marks another milestone for this game-changing platform. This decision, following similar choices by several European NATO countries, underscores the aircraft’s exceptional operational capabilities and its ability to outperform previous generation tactical transport aircraft.
Why the C-390 is Ideal for Vietnam:
The C-390’s ability to operate from unpaved runways makes it ideal for Vietnam’s diverse terrain, enabling critical missions in challenging environments. With a payload capacity of 26 tons, a top speed of 470 knots, and an impressive range, it surpasses other medium-sized military transport aircraft. The global C-390 fleet has proven its reliability with over 15,000 flight hours, a 93% mission capability rate, and a mission completion rate exceeding 99%.
The C-390 can perform a wide range of missions, from logistical support and aerial surveillance to troop transport, air-to-air refuelling (KC-390), as well as humanitarian assistance and civil defence missions, such as medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting and humanitarian relief.
Embraer celebrated its 55th anniversary this year. Could you throw light on the key milestones that have shaped the company’s success and its impact on the global aerospace industry?
Embraer’s journey began with a focus on defence, and over 55 years, we have grown to become a global leader in aerospace, offering innovative solutions for commercial and business aviation as well. This commitment to innovation is reflected in Embraer’s latest offerings for the Vietnamese market, such as the C-390 Millennium and the A 29 Super Tucano.
Since 2000, Embraer has developed and certified over 20 new aircraft types, including the highly successful E-Jets family, which was operated by an airline in Vietnam to enhance regional connectivity.
With 9,000 aircraft delivered to over 100 countries and a portfolio of over 800 patents, Embraer continues to drive innovation in the aerospace industry.
Embraer has a strong history of developing high-value defence solutions, from the C 390 Millennium to the A-29 Super Tucano, a versatile light attack and advanced training aircraft chosen by air forces worldwide, including in Southeast Asia.
We also have a proven track record in creating advanced defence systems, including radars and border surveillance systems.
What steps is Embraer taking to enhance its MRO capabilities and ensure its services meet the growing demands of sustainability and technological innovation in the aviation industry?
Embraer Services and Support provides world-class maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services to our customers worldwide. Our global network of service centres and dedicated teams ensure high aircraft availability rates for defence, commercial, and business aviation.
Embracing Technology and Sustainability:
We leverage AI and digitalization to optimize the MRO process, anticipate customer needs, and minimize downtime. Embraer is investing in sustainable aviation fuels, advanced materials, and waste reduction programs to reduce the emissions and environmental impact of our MRO services.
Forging strong partnerships are also key to our MRO success and we are keen on collaborations to develop local partnerships.
What is Embraer Defence & Security’s goals and aspirations for the future, particularly concerning growth, market expansion, and exports?
Asia Pacific is a crucial market for Embraer Defence & Security. We aim to secure contracts for C-390 Millennium aircraft, A-29 Super Tucano, and integrated defence systems in Vietnam in the near future. We are actively seeking partnerships and collaborations to build a strong aerospace and defence ecosystem in Vietnam, leveraging local expertise and contributing to the nation’s economic growth. Embraer invites Vietnamese partners to join us in shaping the future of aerospace.
