Embraer has officially presented the KC-390 Millennium multi-mission military transport aircraft to Wojskowe Zaklady Lotnicze Nr 2 S.A. (WZL-2) in Bydgoszcz, Poland. This significant milestone marks the first concrete step in strategic cooperation between the two companies, building on a Memorandum of Understanding signed on December 2, 2025, in Warsaw.
The KC-390 Millennium, a next-generation aircraft recognized for its versatility, high operational availability, and advanced technology, is designed to meet demanding airlift and aerial refueling missions. Its arrival at WZL-2 underscores Embraer’s commitment to strengthening industrial partnerships with the Polish aerospace and defense industry.
Douglas Lobo, Vice President of Customer Support & Aftermarket Sales at Embraer Services & Support, stated that today’s event materializes Embraer’s and WZL-2’s shared vision for innovation and collaboration in the defense industry. He noted that by working closely with the Polish defense industry, Embraer aims to create robust cooperation, fostering long-term value for Poland while contributing to the European defense community.
The cooperation focuses on establishing comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capability for the KC-390 in Poland, enhancing operational readiness while fostering local expertise. Jakub Gazda, CEO of WZL-2, said that the KC-390 combines innovative technical solutions, reliability, and enormous operational potential, adding that cooperation with Embraer opens new opportunities for knowledge exchange and competency development.
Since entering operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, followed by Portugal in 2023 and Hungary in 2024, the KC-390 has demonstrated a mission capability rate of 93 percent and mission completion rates above 99 percent. The aircraft can carry 26 tons of payload, flies faster (470 knots), and operates on temporary or unpaved runways. The KC-390 configuration also provides aerial refueling capability.
