The first Embraer C-390 Millennium destined for the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) flew to Portugal on Friday, May 22, according to flight tracking data and aircraft observer reports.
The aircraft made a technical stop in Recife, in northeastern Brazil, before continuing its ferry flight to Europe.
Although route details were not disclosed by FlightRadar24, the C-390 took off on Friday at approximately 1:26 PM local time.
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 could 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.
Editor's note: The article has been corrected at the request of Embraer, which informed that the C-390 flight was destined for Portugal and not South Korea. The aircraft has not yet been officially delivered. See the company's statement:
"Embraer states that the KC-390 Millennium flight from the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) to Portugal was conducted to perform tests required to meet contractual requirements that cannot be performed in Brazil. This activity is part of the standard aircraft modification and customization process, ensuring full compliance with requirements established by the customer.
Following the completion of this phase in Portugal, the aircraft has returned to Brazil to continue the customization process.
Delivery of the aircraft to the customer will take place in the near future, in accordance with the contractual commitments made to DAPA and the ROKAF."
