Embraer has solidified its strategic push into the Middle East defense market by signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with two key UAE-based firms, AMMROC and GAL. These partnerships are designed to collaboratively explore and develop a robust framework for supporting the region’s aerospace and defense sectors, with a primary focus on the versatile KC-390 Millennium military transport aircraft.
The core of these agreements centers on establishing a comprehensive support ecosystem for the KC-390, encompassing maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO), and specialized training services. The collaboration aims to localize critical expertise, enhancing regional self-reliance and operational readiness. In the coming months, the three companies will formulate detailed work plans, addressing potential fleet support, training programs, and engineering modifications tailored to end-user requirements. The scope is also expected to expand into broader aftermarket support, logistics, and repair services.
Leadership from all parties emphasized the strategic significance of the alliances. Jasem Al Marzooqi, CEO of AMMROC, highlighted the move as a step toward expanding capabilities through cooperation with a global aerospace leader. Similarly, Abdelrahman AlHammadi, Acting CEO of GAL, noted the partnership strengthens sovereign defense capabilities and positions the UAE as a regional hub for advanced aerospace services.
For Embraer, represented by Bosco Da Costa Junior of Embraer Defense & Security, the MoUs reflect a long-term commitment to the Middle East. The strategy is clear: to build local partnerships that ensure world-class, in-theater support for its defense platforms.
The chosen centerpiece for this collaboration, the KC-390 Millennium, brings proven credentials to the table. Since entering service with the Brazilian, Portuguese, and Hungarian Air Forces, the aircraft has demonstrated exceptional reliability with high mission capability and completion rates. Its multi-mission design allows it to excel at cargo and troop transport, aerial refueling, medical evacuation, and humanitarian missions, all while operating from rugged, unprepared airstrips.
By aligning with established Middle Eastern maintenance and logistics giants, Embraer is not just selling an aircraft but cultivating a sustainable support infrastructure. This move significantly enhances the KC-390’s value proposition for regional customers, offering them a proven platform backed by a potent, localized partnership dedicated to ensuring long-term operational success.
