Chile appears set to order the Embraer KC-390 tanker-transport aircraft for its air force after the Brazilian and Chilean defence ministers signed a Declaration of Intention, which also paves the way for Chilean participation in the design and production of the aircraft.
The agreement has laid the platform for negotiations on a sale of six KC-390s to Chile for operation by its air force. It has also enabled Embraer to start talks with Chile’s National Aeronautical Enterprise (Empresa Nacional de Aeronáutica or ENAER) about its involvement in the development and production process for the KC-390, with ENAER expected to supply some parts of the aircraft’s structure. ENAER already has a strong relationship with Embraer, having been a supplier of structures for the ERJ-145.
The Brazilian Air Force has announced its intent to purchase 28 KC-390s to replace its C-130 Hercules transport aircraft. France has also been touted as a possible partner in the project, but has not formally agreed to yet.
