Embraer builds Lithuanian defence ties ahead of C-390 Millennium handover
Embraer is strengthening its presence in Europe with plans to develop a new industrial partnership in Lithuania, following the country’s recent selection of the C-390 Millennium as its future military transport aircraft.
The deal not only brings the next-generation airlifter to the Baltics but also signals a deeper strategic collaboration with Lithuania’s domestic industry.
Embraer heads to Lithuania to seal the deal
Over the past month, Embraer representatives have met with local industrial stakeholders and toured Lithuanian facilities, aiming to identify opportunities across key aerospace sectors. Areas under discussion include Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), engineering, innovation, and supply chain development.
“We have met with several Lithuanian industrial organisations and have observed their expertise and capabilities,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. “We will contribute to Lithuania’s defence capabilities with the C-390 Millennium aircraft and also support the country’s industrial and technological development.”
The move reflects Lithuania’s broader national objectives to develop a resilient, high-tech defence industrial base and deepen cooperation between its defence, economy, and innovation ministries.
It also underscores Embraer’s European ambitions. The company has significantly expanded its regional footprint over the past decade, with more than 40% of the C-390 supply chain already sourced from Europe.
Embraer strengthens European foothold
The establishment of Embraer Defense Europe in Lisbon and partnerships with nations like Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, and the Czech Republic have created a foundation for cross-border industrial cooperation. Lithuania’s addition to this network strengthens both Embraer’s NATO-aligned posture and Europe’s internal defence supply resilience.
Lithuania’s decision to adopt the C-390 puts it in line with several other NATO members modernising their tactical airlift fleets. The C-390 Millennium has a mission readiness rate of 93% and a mission completion rate above 99%, with capabilities spanning airlift, medevac, firefighting, search and rescue, and air-to-air refuelling (in its KC-390 configuration).
By partnering with multiple NATO members — including Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Hungary, Sweden, and now Lithuania — Embraer positions itself as a reliable, non-US alternative that can work within existing NATO frameworks.
As Embraer looks to establish training centres and broaden its European industrial ecosystem, Lithuania may emerge as a key partner in both capability development and continental defence integration.
