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Netherlands chooses Embraer KC-390 Millennium to replace its C-130 Hercules
KC-390 Millenium
Image: FAB
Rafael Ramos
6/17/2022
On Thursday (16), the government of the Netherlands announced that it has chosen the Embraer KC-390 to replace its fleet of Lockheed Martin C-130H Hercules. The NATO member country has ordered 5 planes of the model and the delivery is expected to start in mid-2026.
The value of the deal was not disclosed, but based on table values, it is estimated to be around 830 million euros.
Initially, the Netherlands had plans to replace its 4 C-130H Hercules planes, which are already at the end of their useful life, with other planes of the same model, but in their most updated J version. However, military reviews ended up falling on the Embraer KC-390, which was considered a better choice. In addition, the purchase of 5 units was approved, instead of 4.
“The availability of the C-390M is higher, the aircraft scores better on a number of operational and technical requirements and requires less maintenance,” reads a statement from the Dutch Ministry of Defense.
In addition, the KC-390 must participate in the European Air Transport Command, a partnership that brings together 7 European countries and would benefit military and humanitarian support missions.
Defense Secretary Christophe van der Maat said the KC-390 will fly longer than planned. He cited, as an example, the evacuations in Afghanistan in 2021 and the war in Ukraine.
“The extra transport capacity benefits the speed of response to disasters,” he said.
The C-130H Hercules are still expected to fly until 2031.
See Embraer's note: "Recognizing that there is still a lot of work to be done in the coming months, we are committed to the success of this new phase of cooperation with the Dutch Ministry of Defense. In this process, Embraer is committed to collaboration with local industry and research centers.”
KC-390
Imagem: FAB
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Rafael Ramos
Aviation enthusiast from an early age, he had his first contacts with the area developing that good old habit of spending dozens of hours in front of the screens of Micrsoft Flight Simulator and other simulators. With a solid background in various technological areas, including engineering and chemistry, Rafael has rejoined aviation as editor and author of articles and materials on our portal, providing invaluable help to the dynamics and expansion of the website and the aeronautical community, bringing us the news and updates so indispensable for us to remain current in our area of operation.
   
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