Embraer and Denel sign strategic agreement to boost collaboration in Africa
Brazilian manufacturer Embraer and South African defence leader Denel have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their cooperation in the aerospace and defence sectors.
The MoU, which was formalised during the LAAD Defense and Security exhibition in Brazil outlines a possible partnership centred on the KC-390 Millennium military transport aircraft, with a focus on manufacturing and MRO activities. Fabio Caparica, VP of contracts at Embraer Defense and Security emphasised that as South Africa looks to replace its legacy military aircraft, Embraer is looking forward to “providing the most advanced aircraft in its category while cooperating with South Africa’s defence industry.”
Versatile and capable of operating on unpaved airstrips such as soil and gravel, the KC-390 is well suited to conditions in the region. Capable of carrying a payload of up to 26 tonnes it outperforms other medium-sized transport aircraft, flying faster (470 knots) and with a long-range capability. Its multi-mission design allows for rapid reconfiguration from humanitarian aid, transport and aerial refuelling to medical evacuation and troop and cargo transport.
The aircraft is currently in service with the Brazilian, Portuguese and Hungarian air forces, and has been acquired by five other countries, including South Korea, the Netherlands, Austria and the Czech Republic . Sweden and Slovakia have also officially selected the aircraft to modernise their air force fleets.
The proposed partnership with Denel signals a step forward in expanding the aircraft ‘s presence in Africa. Chris Boshoff, group executive CEO Aerospace of Denel attended the MoU signing alongside Caparica. He added that this collaboration builds on a longstanding relationship between the two companies spanning several decades.
“Denel is well-equipped and is a suitably qualified industrial partner to undertake the necessary tasks envisaged for the collaboration and will significantly enhance the strategic airlift support capabilities on the African continent.”
