Talks on acquisition of military cargo aircraft opened
Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence
2025-06-19
Acquisitions and infrastructure development
The Ministry of National Defence has kicked off talks on next generation military cargo aircraft procurement. The decision was taken after concluding evaluations of proposed aircraft from three aviation companies based on market analysis data.
The C-390 Millennium manufactured by Embraer Defense & Security was selected as the choice that ticked off the most boxes in Lithuania's requirement list. The acquisition would back up the existing C-27J Spartan capability. It will fundamentally strengthen the Lithuanian Air Force capability and support excellent interoperability between the Lithuanian defence s and NATO partners.
The evaluation was based on operational aircraft requirements provided by the Lithuanian Armed Forces while also bearing in mind ecological and economical parameters, delivery deadlines and potential for industrial cooperation of the manufacturer, i.e. inclination for cooperation with enterprises and scientific institutions in Lithuania.
"We are buying strategic airlift capability, something in short supply among NATO Allies in Europe, rather than just next generation air assets. The gap has been brought up in NATO meetings numerous times. The new aircraft will enable a quicker and more economical airlift of equipment and troops while at the same time adding to the overall Alliance's deterrent potential. Lithuania needs an aircraft with heavy lift capacity and substantial operational range, as well as compatible with NATO standards, so that we can contribute in multinational missions as equals," Minister of National Defence Dovilė Šakalienė points out.
According to Minister, the selection was made based on delivery terms, besides the technical characteristics of the aircraft.
"We are clear-eyed about how soon more robust capabilities might be needed, or take even the current situation where airlift of persons from danger area or conducting other urgent missions is required. The possibility to add capability to the Air Force in three years, not ten, is a significant consideration," noted Minister amidst the ongoing evacuation of nationals from Israel alongside with other public institutions.
C-390 Millennium aircraft also boast the advantage of fuel efficiency as compared to other market options, as well as lower pollution and comparatively silent jet engines. The aircraft are efficient in crisis and in peacetime due to their maintenance cycle compatible with civilian aircraft. Another factor in favor is the manufacturer's commitment to contribute to the Lithuanian defence sector through industrial cooperation.
The Netherlands and Portugal already operate C-390 and plan additional acquisition, while Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, Czech Republic and Sweden will be new users one they implement the planned procurements.
Currently the Lithuanian Air Force operates three C-27J Spartan aircraft made by Italy's Alenia Aeromacchi. The capability is utilized for troop transportation, airdrop operations, medical airlift, VIP transportation and other special assignments.
About Embraer C-390 Millennium
The next generation multi-role military cargo aircraft was rolled out in 2017. Its advanced design makes it suitable for wide-spectrum tasks - from personnel and cargo airlift to mid-air refueling, search and rescue, firefighting or reconnaissance. The C-390 is seen as one of the most advanced aircraft in the class due to its versatility.
With a payload of up to 23 t, the aircraft reaches up to 870 km/h in the effective range of approx. 2500 kilometers with maximum payload, or over 7000 km not loaded. The C-390 exceeds other options in speed, payload and required maintenance thus making the best choice in terms of readiness and effectiveness. The aircraft also has additional mission characteristics: mid-air refueling, firefighting, aerial reconnaissance, search and rescue, etc.
The mid-air refueling feature is particularly desired in the current NATO context. Adding the capability to NATO air forces through the Lithuanian Air Force would significantly boost the value of Lithuania's contribution while enhancing operational flexibility, participation in multinational operations and cooperation with NATO Allies.
The aircraft also complies with strict sustainability and noise requirements thanks to its advanced ICAO standard Pratt & Whitney engines which enable flight near populated areas or from civilian airports because of the lower fuel consumption and noise level.
The Embraer C-390 also offers a more attractive preliminary price compared to other options, and would incur lower maintenance costs: its lengthier in-between maintenance intervals and lower maintenance requirement in general allows countries to cut the operation cost over the entire operation time.
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