Embraer and Northrop Grumman have joined forces to develop advanced tanking capabilities for the KC-390 Millennium aircraft, aiming to pitch it to the US and other allied nations.
The KC-390’s current configuration supports probe-and-drogue refueling, preventing it from refueling most US Air Force fighters — including the F-35A, F-15, and F-16 — which rely on boom refueling.
To address this gap, both companies signed a memorandum of understanding to explore adding an autonomous aerial refueling boom capability to the KC-390, positioned as an optional feature and retrofittable on existing aircraft.
The work also includes integrating adaptable mission systems and upgraded communications, situational awareness, and survivability options.
“We’re exploring new technologies that will increase the versatility of the proven KC-390 platform and deliver that greater operational independence our customers need,” said Tom Jones, Corporate VP and President, Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems.
Embraer has been promoting the military tanker transport aircraft based on international requirements. Its partnership with a major US defense contractor gives the Brazilian aerospace firm better access to US military markets and NATO interoperability requirements.
In addition to the potential addition of a flying boom, the company refreshed the aircraft’s paint scheme last year.
KC-390 Millenium
Based on Embraer’s C-390 tactical airlifter, the KC-390 is a multi-mission aircraft capable of a range of missions, including aerial refueling and rapid response.
It is also positioned to be suited for agile combat employment, a US Air Force operational doctrine involving distributed basing, rapid redeployment, and operating from austere airfields.
Measuring 35 meters (115 feet) and with a maximum fuel load of 23,000 kilograms (50,706 pounds), it has a top speed of over 900 kilometers (559 miles) per hour.
The aircraft can reach altitudes of up to 11,000 meters (36,089 feet) and a range of 6,000 kilometers (3,728 miles).
