Embraer is pursuing a transport aircraft contract with the Indian Air Force and aiming to increase sales of its E2 regional jets.
The move represents a strategic push by the Brazilian aerospace company to penetrate one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets. By targeting both defense and civil sectors, Embraer seeks to diversify its global footprint and challenge established competitors in the region.
Francisco Gomes Neto, CEO of Embraer, said the company is confident of winning the Indian Air Force order for transport aircraft with the C-390 Millennium. The C-390 is designed for multi-mission roles, including troop transport and cargo logistics.
A company spokesperson said Embraer expects India to move ahead with the military transport aircraft tender in the coming months [1]. The company said the C-390 Millennium is a strong contender for the requirement [1].
Beyond military applications, Gomes Neto is focusing on India's commercial aviation infrastructure. He said Embraer's E2 passenger jets can bridge the gap between turboprops and narrow-body aircraft, and boost regional connectivity across India.
Regional connectivity is a priority for Indian aviation authorities seeking to link smaller cities to major hubs. Embraer believes the E2's specific capacity and efficiency make it an ideal tool for this expansion, allowing airlines to operate routes that are too small for larger jets but require more speed than turboprops.
The company's strategy involves a dual-track approach: securing a high-value government defense contract while simultaneously positioning its commercial fleet as the primary solution for domestic regional growth.
“We are confident of winning the Indian Air Force order for transport aircraft with the C‑390.”
Embraer's aggressive pursuit of the Indian market indicates a shift toward capturing emerging economies where infrastructure is still scaling. If the company secures the Indian Air Force contract, it would provide a critical geopolitical and commercial foothold in South Asia, potentially serving as a springboard for further sales of its regional E2 jets to Indian commercial carriers.
