Embraer signed a memorandum of understanding with Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) on May 22, a move that signals growing expectations that Greece could become a future operator of the C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft.
The agreement establishes a framework for future maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) activities for the C-390 in Greece and would support local sustainment of a potential Hellenic Air Force fleet.
“The agreement will enable Embraer to further strengthen its presence in Greece and reinforce its long-standing relationship with the country,” the Brazilian manufacturer said in a statement.
HAI was founded by the Greek government in 1975 and is one of the country’s main state-owned aerospace and defense companies.
Although the Greek government has not formally announced a purchase, the timing of the agreement comes shortly after Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias confirmed discussions with Portugal regarding a possible acquisition of the aircraft.
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Speaking during a visit to Lisbon earlier this month, Dendias said the two countries discussed “the possibility of purchasing the C-390.” Portugal currently has six aircraft on order and holds 10 purchase options that can be reassigned to other NATO members.
Greek media reports have previously indicated that Athens could initially seek three aircraft, with possible fleet expansion later in the decade.
The Hellenic Air Force has been evaluating replacements for part of its aging military transport fleet, particularly C-130 Hercules aircraft that have faced low availability rates in recent years. Greece also operates C-27J Spartan transports, which are expected to remain in service after modernization work.
Embraer demonstrated the C-390 to the Greek Air Force in 2023 during evaluations held at Elefsina Air Base.
The C-390 has expanded its presence in Europe in recent years, securing orders from Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Sweden, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
