Rabat-– The Royal Moroccan Air Force has officially signed a contract for the acquisition of KC-390 Millennium military transport aircraft following successful trials conducted in March of this year. This acquisition is a crucial part of Morocco’s ongoing strategy to diversify its military equipment and suppliers.
According to the Atlantic Observatory for Defense and Armament, Morocco joins several other nations in securing agreements with Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. The KC-390 Millennium is expected to complement and potentially replace the Moroccan military’s fleet of Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules aircraft.
In addition to the purchase, Morocco is in negotiations with Embraer to explore the possibility of locally producing the KC-390 Millennium, with the aim of achieving a “highly favorable integration rate.” This initiative reflects a broader strategy to enhance the Royal Armed Forces’ (FRA) fleet of transport and refueling aircraft, as previously reported by the Spanish daily La Razón.
The KC-390 Millennium, a medium-sized transport aircraft powered by two jet engines, offers several competitive advantages over its rivals, including the capability to serve as an aerial refueling tanker. This innovative aircraft can transport up to 26 tons of cargo, including wheeled armored vehicles, providing Morocco with a versatile solution for both transport and logistics.
Notably, the KC-390 distinguishes itself from the C-130 Hercules with its rear ramp, which facilitates the efficient loading and unloading of large cargo volumes. The KC-390 is also more competitively priced, with an estimated cost of approximately $50 million—just over a third of its rivals, which can exceed $130 million.
This versatile aircraft can carry substantial payloads, with a maximum capacity of 26,000 kg. It can accommodate 80 soldiers, transport 74 stretchers along with 8 medical personnel, or deploy 66 paratroopers. The KC-390 boasts a maximum speed of 992 km/h and impressive range capabilities: 2,820 km with a 23,000 kg load, 3,220 km with 19,000 kg, and 5,820 km with a load of 14,000 kg.
