Hungarian Air Force Acquires Second C-390 Millennium Multi-Role Aircraft

Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky (L) and Embraer Defence & Security Marketing Director Marcio Monteiro (R)
honvedelem.hu
‘Brazilian aerospace firm Embraer is advancing its supply of the multi-mission transport aircraft C-390 Millennium to Hungary.’

Brazilian aerospace firm Embraer is advancing its supply of the multi-mission transport aircraft C-390 Millennium to Hungary, reinforcing the capabilities of the Hungarian Air Force.

According to Aeroflap, which covered Embraer’s announcement of the delivery, Hungary’s first C-390 Millennium is notable for being the first aircraft worldwide equipped with a fully integrated Intensive Care Unit (ICU) module. 

The outlet explains that Embraer designed this roll-on/roll-off medical system to enable rapid conversion of the aircraft for humanitarian or emergency missions, substantially expanding its utility beyond traditional airlift roles. 

Aeroflap reports that Hungary’s aircraft adheres to NATO-standard avionics, communications and self-protection systems, ensuring complete interoperability with allied forces during multinational operations. 

The outlet also highlights the significance of the delivery within Hungary’s broader defence modernization strategy, noting that the C-390 offers superior payload, speed and operational availability compared to legacy platforms traditionally used in the region. With this delivery, Aeroflap states, the Hungarian Air Force gains a versatile asset capable of supporting troop deployment, cargo transport, medical evacuation and crisis-response missions across Europe and beyond.

The French aviation outlet Aerobuzz reports that Hungary officially received its second C-390 Millennium during a ceremony at Kecskemét Air Base, completing its two-aircraft order placed in 2020. 

‘The Hungarian Air Force gains a versatile asset capable of supporting troop deployment, cargo transport, medical evacuation and crisis-response missions’

Aerobuzz emphasizes that Hungary is now the first customer to take delivery of its full contracted fleet, marking an important milestone for both the operator and Embraer. The article highlights statements made during the ceremony, noting that Hungarian defence officials praised the type’s strong operational record: the first aircraft, delivered the previous year, had achieved a mission readiness rate exceeding 99 per cent. 

Aerobuzz underscores the C-390’s capacity to perform a wide spectrum of missions, from strategic and tactical transport to precision airdrop and aerial refuelling, reflecting Hungary’s intent to enhance military mobility and resilience. The outlet also points out that the arrival of the second aircraft allows the air force to begin developing full operational capability, including pilot training, logistics integration and multinational cooperation within NATO.

The second C-390 PHOTO: honvedelem.hu

In its coverage, Actu-Aero confirms that Embraer has completed the delivery of the second C-390 to Hungary and outlines the broader operational context surrounding the acquisition. The outlet notes that the C-390 significantly increases Hungary’s transport capacity, replacing ageing platforms such as the An-26 while providing dramatically improved performance, including a 26-ton payload, 870 km/h cruise speed and the ability to operate from semi-prepared runways. 

Actu-Aero emphasizes that Hungary’s fleet is unique in incorporating the newly developed ICU module, positioning the country as a leader in medical-airlift capability within Central Europe. The article further explains that the C-390 programme has been steadily expanding, with NATO members such as the Netherlands, Austria and the Czech Republic also selecting the type. Actu-Aero concludes that Hungary’s adoption of the C-390 strengthens not only national defence but also its contribution to multinational missions, disaster-response operations and European air mobility initiatives.


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‘Brazilian aerospace firm Embraer is advancing its supply of the multi-mission transport aircraft C-390 Millennium to Hungary.’

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