First Flight of Embraer KC-390 Aircraft for Hungary

Hungary's first Embraer KC-390 military transport aircraft completed its inaugural flight in Brazil on February 8.

The aircraft is scheduled to be delivered to Hungary later this year. The decision to procure two KC-390 military transport aircraft in 2020 is a response to the retirement of the AN-26 military transport aircraft.

The KC-390 offers capabilities tailored for tactical transport operations, air-to-air refuelling of Saab Gripen C/D fighters, and medical evacuation, featuring provisions for an intensive care unit. The aircraft can carry a payload of up to 26 tonnes.

Following the successful take-off in Brazil, a series of aerial tests has begun, accompanied by ongoing training for Hungarian Defence Forces personnel at the Embraer training centre. This preparation aims to ensure a seamless reception and utilization of the advanced technology when the aircraft arrives in Hungary in 2024.

Embraer, the Brazilian manufacturer, officially announced the milestone, stating that the aircraft flew for approximately four hours after departing from the Gavião Peixoto production facility. The KC-390 will now undergo a test and assessment phase before its scheduled delivery to Hungary later in 2024.

The KC-390 Millennium boasts a hold volume of 170 m³, including the ramp, and a maximum payload of 23 tonnes (or a concentrated maximum payload of 26 tonnes over the centre of gravity). With a rough-field capability, the aircraft can land on California Bearing Ratio (CBR) 4-rated (soft-field) surfaces. Performance specifications include a maximum cruise speed of 470 kt (870 km/h), a maximum altitude of 36,000 ft, and a range of 1,380 nautical miles (2,556 km) with a 23-tonne payload. The range can be extended through in-flight refuelling, further enhancing its operational flexibility.