In a bid to secure a major contract with the Indian Air Force (IAF), Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer has made firm commitments regarding the operational readiness of its C-390M transport aircraft.
The IAF is currently evaluating the C-390M as a potential contender for its Medium Tactical Transport (MTA) program, a deal that could see the acquisition of 60-80 aircraft.
Embraer is emphasizing the high serviceability rate of the C-390M, a critical factor for the IAF. To ensure smooth and continuous operations, the company plans to establish a robust supply chain within India, minimizing dependence on parts from Brazil. This initiative will be undertaken in collaboration with Mahindra Defence, a leading Indian defense firm.
Highlighting the aircraft's reliability, Embraer pointed to the experience of the Brazilian Air Force, which currently operates six C-390Ms and boasts a serviceability rate of over 97%.
This achievement, even with a relatively small fleet, underscores the aircraft's robust design and Embraer's commitment to maintenance support. The Brazilian Air Force has 13 more C-390Ms on order and plans to further expand its fleet, demonstrating its confidence in the aircraft.
If the IAF selects the C-390M, it would become the largest operator of the aircraft globally, surpassing even the Brazilian Air Force. Embraer's pledge to maintain a high serviceability rate addresses a key concern for the IAF, whose current transport fleet, composed largely of Soviet-era aircraft, often struggles to achieve a serviceability rate above 50%.
The exception is the IAF's fleet of 11 C-17 strategic transport aircraft, which consistently maintains a serviceability rate above 90%. However, the significantly larger size of the proposed C-390M fleet makes Embraer's commitment all the more noteworthy.
This focus on serviceability and localized support could give Embraer a competitive edge in the MTA program, where it faces competition from Airbus's A400M Atlas and Lockheed Martin's C-130J Super Hercules.
The IAF is expected to conduct a thorough evaluation of all contenders, considering factors such as capability, future upgrade potential, and life-cycle costs before making a final decision.