C-390 Millennium Lithuania: Future Military Transport Plans
Lithuania has officially selected the Embraer C-390 Millennium as its next military transport aircraft, marking a significant step in modernizing its defense capabilities. A contract for this acquisition is expected to be finalized in the coming months, a move that aligns seamlessly with Vilnius’ objectives to bolster its military capacity and enhance interoperability with NATO forces.
Other European countries, including Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, and Austria, have already chosen the C-390, with the Czech Republic, Sweden, and Slovakia also committing to the platform. Lithuania’s selection of the C-390 is anticipated to provide substantial benefits, particularly through established European support and training networks associated with the aircraft.
Military Needs Assessment
The decision to adopt the C-390 was confirmed by Loreta Maskaliovienė, the Vice Minister of National Defence of Lithuania, who emphasized the thorough evaluation of military transport options available in the market. Maskaliovienė stated, “Our analysis has clearly indicated that the C-390 Millennium is the most suitable platform to meet our national military operational needs,” underscoring the strategic choice behind this acquisition.
This aircraft’s design and capabilities align well with Lithuania’s current military requirements, providing a robust solution for a range of operational scenarios.
Notable Features of the C-390 Millennium
The C-390 Millennium is equipped with impressive specifications, including a payload capacity of 26 tons and flight speeds reaching up to 470 knots, or approximately 540 miles per hour. This versatility allows it to conduct various missions, such as troop and cargo transport, aerial supply drops, and medical evacuations.
Additionally, the C-390 can perform critical humanitarian assistance missions, firefighting, and search and rescue operations. Its operational versatility is further enhanced by its ability to utilize temporary or unpaved runways, expanding its deployment capabilities significantly.
Enhanced Operational Flexibility
The C-390 also features advanced capabilities for air-to-air refueling, functioning efficiently as both a tanker and a receiver. It has gone through rigorous testing, demonstrating its ability to receive fuel from another C-390 using wing-mounted refueling pods, which streamlines its operational readiness.
These features not only bolster the aircraft’s utility in various missions but also enhance Lithuania’s air mobility and operational flexibility in the field.
Strengthening National Defense
Amidst rising security concerns in the region, Lithuania is prioritizing defense modernization and increasing foreign acquisitions while also fostering its domestic defense industry. In May, the government allocated an impressive 300 million euros, equivalent to $337.4 million, dedicated to enhancing the defense sector.
This strategic investment is part of Lithuania’s broader plan to spend up to 6 percent of its GDP annually on defense from 2026 to 2030, demonstrating a clear commitment to strengthening national security and military capabilities.
