Embraer and Rheinmetall are in advanced discussions to establish a new C-390 Training Center in Europe. This initiative is designed to meet the growing training needs of European C-390 operators, ensuring that pilots, loadmasters, mechanics, and additional crew members receive top-notch training closer to their bases of operation.
Currently, the only Embraer C-390 Training Center is located in São Paulo, Brazil. This facility hosts a Full Flight and Mission Simulator (FFMS) and a Loadmaster Training Station, serving crews from the Brazilian, Portuguese, and Hungarian Air Forces. The proposed European center would significantly enhance training accessibility for existing and prospective C-390 users in the region.
“With the ongoing success of the C-390 throughout Europe, it is the right moment to start the evaluation and planning for a European C-390 training hub, providing comprehensive training facilities for aircrew and cargo operation training,” said Timo Haas, CDO of Rheinmetall AG and Deputy CEO of Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH.
Ayslan Anholon, Vice President for Flight Operations & Training at Embraer Services & Support, emphasized, “We want to create the best conditions for our C-390 customers by offering best-in-class training. We continuously monitor the network and assess customized solutions per region as the fleet grows.”
José Gustavo, Vice President for Sales of Embraer Defense & Security for Europe and Africa, added, “With the evolving defense and security challenges facing NATO allies and partner nations, European Air Forces must train their pilots to stringent standards. Creating conditions for rigorous and continuous training will enhance their tactical skills and decision-making capabilities, crucial for operating advanced aircraft and responding to dynamic threat environments.”
The Portuguese Air Force is set to receive a FFMS at Beja Air Base as part of their C-390 contract with Embraer, while the Royal Netherlands Air Force is planning to install their own FFMS. The outcomes of Embraer and Rheinmetall’s discussions could expand this network further, paving the way for additional national C-390 FFMS installations worldwide.
