RIO DE JANEIRO, April 10 (UPI) -- Brazilian aircraft-maker Embraer Defense & Security reports it is promoting its KC-390 military transport in the international market.
The planned marketing effort follows the aircraft passing of its Critical Design Review with the Brazilian Air Force, for whom the airlifter is initially being made.
"The project has firmly and consistently moved forward and, now that we have concluded the CDR, we are ready to begin holding discussions with potential customers of the aircraft," said Luiz Carlos Aguiar, president and chief executive officer of Embraer Defense & Security. "There is a heavy demand for replacing older aircraft in this segment of the international market."
The KC-39 is a medium-sized transport with a cargo capacity of 23 tons and a maximum cruise speed of 465 knots. In addition to transporting troops and cargo, it can also double as an aerial refueler.
It will feature the latest-generation of integrated avionics, a fly-by-wire system and a rapid cargo reconfiguration capability.
"The KC-390 has exceeded our expectations and will bring significant operational gains to the FAB," said Lt.-Brig. Juniti Saito, Commander of the Brazilian Air Force. "The excellent performance, flexibility, and optimal logistics of the aircraft will be decisive for increasing efficiency of our missions."
