KC-390 Millennium debuts new livery at Dubai

Embraer’s KC-390 Millennium in its refreshed demonstration livery at Dubai Airshow 2025. *Image: Embraer*

Embraer has unveiled the Embraer KC-390 new livery at the 2025 Dubai Airshow. The scheme gives the Millennium family its sharpest refresh to date. As a result, the demonstrator signals a deliberate push into NATO and Middle Eastern competitions for mid‑weight airlift and tanker roles. The branding move aims to lift visibility in crowded procurement cycles [1][2].

Key Facts

Event: International debut of the Embraer KC-390 new livery at Dubai Airshow 2025 [1].

Design notes: Two‑tone, low‑visibility grey on a factory demonstrator acquired by Embraer to support sales campaigns [2].

Mission set: Tactical and strategic lift, AAR (probe‑and‑drogue), medevac, airdrop, and humanitarian relief. Configurations remain customer‑driven [1][3].

Performance: Up to 26 t payload and cruise near Mach 0.80 (~470 kt). Consequently, time‑to‑task improves versus turboprops [3].

Market traction: Europe shows clear momentum. The Netherlands and Austria contracted in 2024, while the Czech Republic selected in 2023 and signed in 2024 [4][5].

Why the rebrand matters

Paint does not change performance. However, it does change perception and recall. The Embraer KC-390 new livery resets first impressions in competitions where the aircraft already scores well on speed, payload, and through‑life costs. Therefore, the message to buyers is simple: a modern, interoperable airlifter with a brand presence that matches the technical case [1][2].

Moreover, visibility is consequential across NATO and U.S.‑aligned markets. Industrial policy, fleet commonality, and coalition logistics often decide outcomes. In Dubai, the KC‑390 stood in front of delegations from the Middle East and Europe that face tight timelines and rising airlift demand [1][4].

Design cues and sales intent

The refreshed look uses darker two‑tone grey and enlarged markings for stronger stand‑off recognition. Notably, the airframe on display is a former Brazilian Air Force prototype. Embraer acquired and converted it into a factory demonstrator to accelerate global campaigns. Thus, the company avoids the friction of borrowing an in‑service jet from an operator [2].

Embraer’s dedicated demonstrator underlines a proactive sales model. It keeps a KC‑390 available for tours, trials, and showcases without impacting customer fleets [2].

What customers saw in Dubai

On the static line, Embraer emphasized the core multi‑mission package. The jet reconfigures quickly for cargo or troops. It also supports aerial refueling and roll‑on/roll‑off medical evacuation. While the Embraer KC-390 new livery drew cameras, the substantive pitch remained lifecycle economics and interoperability. Crucially, established European programs of record reinforced the case [1][3][4].

For prospective operators, the demonstrator balances sovereign flexibility with alliance‑grade connectivity. The platform’s automation, fly‑by‑wire controls, and modern avionics compress training time. In turn, higher sortie rates support surge operations and humanitarian contingencies [3].

Europe: momentum, footprint, timelines

Europe’s story accelerated in the last two years. The Netherlands and Austria formalized a joint order in July 2024—five and four aircraft—with deliveries starting in 2027 [4]. The Czech Republic selected the type in October 2023 and signed its contract in October 2024 for two units plus training and support [5]. Meanwhile, Portugal and Hungary continue advanced delivery programs [4][5].

Beyond firm orders, Embraer is exploring deeper localization. Options include a European defense office and, potentially, final assembly or component work in the region. These moves would raise European content, streamline sustainment, and strengthen NATO engagement. Consequently, the KC‑390 could gain an edge in future tenders [6][7].

Technical snapshot: speed, payload, availability

Performance remains central. As a jet‑powered medium lifter, the KC‑390 cruises around Mach 0.80 and carries up to 26 t. It outpaces turboprops on time‑to‑task while retaining rough‑field adaptability. Furthermore, self‑protection suites, an NVG‑compatible flight deck, precision airdrop modes, and probe‑and‑drogue refueling support broad missions without heavy modification [3].

For operators moving from legacy fleets, availability and maintainability drive value. European customers highlight a lower maintenance burden versus older transports. Paired with higher speed, fewer tails may meet the same airlift tasking. Therefore, total ownership costs can decline [4][5].

Competitive outlook

The Embraer KC-390 new livery does not alter the aircraft’s fundamentals. Even so, it reframes the conversation at a pivotal time. Allied air forces now prioritize readiness and rapid deployment. Accordingly, Embraer positions the Millennium as both an alternative to legacy turboprops and a fast, interoperable complement to heavy‑lift fleets. With campaigns active across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia‑Pacific, 2026–2028 will show whether stronger branding converts into wins [1][4][6].

Internal link: For a short‑range air defense example relevant to expeditionary basing, see our coverage of MKE’s TOLGA short‑range air defence system.