The first Embraer C-390 Millennium destined for the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) was en route to South Korea on Friday, May 22, according to flight tracking data and reports from aircraft spotters.
The aircraft made a technical stop in Recife, northeastern Brazil, before continuing its ferry flight toward Asia.
Although details of the route were hidden on FlightRadar24, the C-390 departed on Friday at approximately 1:26 pm local time. Embraer had not officially announced the delivery as of Saturday, May 23.
South Korea ordered three C-390 Millennium aircraft in 2023 under the Large Transport Aircraft II (LTA-II) program in a deal valued at around US$470 million.
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The selection represented one of Embraer’s most important military export wins in the Asia-Pacific region, with the Brazilian aircraft chosen over the Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules.
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The first South Korean C-390 completed its maiden flight in Brazil in March and subsequently entered a phase of testing and systems integration linked to local operational requirements before delivery.
Once formally accepted, the Republic of Korea Air Force will become the fourth operator of the C-390 after Brazil, Portugal and Hungary.
As of early 2026, Embraer had delivered 14 aircraft under the program, including eight to the Brazilian Air Force, four to Portugal and two to Hungary.
The manufacturer continues to pursue additional military transport campaigns worldwide, including in India, where the company has partnered with Mahindra in a bid involving up to 60 aircraft.
Beyond the standard transport role, Embraer has also promoted versions of the C-390 configured for aerial refueling, maritime patrol and other specialized missions.
