Embraer-TAI deal may expand to include C-390 and 5th-gen fighter jet: Report

Brazilian aerospace company Embraer and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that could significantly broaden their industrial collaboration.

It could potentially include the co-production of the Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft and even joint development of a fifth-generation fighter jet, according to the report.

The agreement, signed on April 2 during the LAAD defense and security exhibition in Rio de Janeiro, is reportedly initially aimed at exploring industrial cooperation around the E190-E2 and E195-E2 commercial jets.

Civil aviation: Production of E-Jets in Türkiye

The MoU reportedly outlines a plan to evaluate the joint production of the E-Jet E2 series in Türkiye.

Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) can bring significant capabilities in composite and metallic structures, fuselage assembly, flight testing, and finishing operations such as painting and final checks. The agreement reportedly includes provisions for research and development, technology transfer, and engineering cooperation.

Senior executives from both companies, including Turkish Aerospace CEO Mehmet Demiroglu and Embraer CEO Francisco Gomes Neto, emphasized that the collaboration aligns with their long-term strategic goals of strengthening technological capabilities and expanding global presence.

Mehmet Demiroglu, CEO of Turkish Aerospace, stated, “This memorandum marks a significant milestone for the Turkish defense and aerospace industry. Through our collaboration with Embraer, we aim to further enhance our technological capabilities and shape the future of aviation. By combining our strengths, we are not only building for today but also laying the foundation for the aviation ecosystem of tomorrow.”

C-390: A strategic fit for Turkish Air Force?

Beyond commercial aviation, Brazil is reportedly exploring the sale of Embraer’s C-390 Millennium to replace its aging fleet of Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules aircraft to Türkiye.

Türkiye currently operates C-130s, CASA CN-235s for light transport, and Airbus A400Ms for strategic missions.

The Brazilian Minister of Defense Jose Mucio Monteiro confirmed that discussions are underway between Embraer and Türkiye—as well as with Poland and Finland—regarding potential C-390 purchases.

The aircraft’s transport, medical evacuation, and aerial refueling capabilities offer a strong fit for Ankara’s evolving defense needs.

While no official link between the E-Jet MoU and C-390 negotiations has been confirmed, the alignment of the two initiatives suggests a growing defense partnership between the two nations.

Francisco Gomes Neto, president and CEO of Embraer, said, “Embraer is excited about these significant opportunities with Turkish Aerospace. Their expertise in aerospace manufacturing and assembly aligns perfectly with our strategic goals. This MoU marks a significant step towards exploring innovative solutions and expanding our global footprint.”

5th generation fighter jet cooperation on the horizon

In a longer-term perspective, the MoU could lay the groundwork for advanced joint projects such as a fifth-generation fighter jet. While Embraer currently operates a production line of the F-39 Gripen E in cooperation with Saab—considered a 4.5-generation platform—it lacks a fully stealth fifth-generation aircraft.

Türkiye, on the other hand, is developing KAAN, a twin-engine stealth fighter with supercruise capability.

KAAN is expected to enter service by 2028, replacing Türkiye’s F-16 fleet in the long term. The aircraft includes advanced data fusion, full-spectrum sensor integration, and reportedly might also have a naval variant for carrier operations.

Reports suggest that the Saudi government and United Arab Emirates (UAE) are reportedly considering the purchase of 100 KAAN units.

Industry observers note that Embraer could contribute significantly to KAAN’s development or even initiate a Brazilian variant of the aircraft. With around 60 specialized suppliers and recognized aerospace expertise, Embraer could shorten development timelines or enhance production efficiency.