The C-390, manufactured by Embraer, is a medium-weight, twin-engine multi-mission tactical transporter in service with the Brazilian military from 2019, with first export deliveries to Portugal and Hungary due in 2023 and 2024 respectively. An air-to-air refueling variant, the KC-390, has also been developed. Embraer and BAE Systems have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly promote the C-390 transport aircraft into Middle East countries, in particular Saudi Arabia, as part of the renewed export drive. The Middle East, in particular the Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait), are significant importers of military equipment given the relatively immature nature of their own defense industries. However, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are developing their own manufacturing base, with any exports to Riyadh or Abu Dhabi potentially requiring technology transfer and in-country manufacture or system installation.
Saudi Arabia currently operates a mixed fleet of more than 30 C-130H/J tactical transporters, with the H variant gradually being phased out and replaced by the more modern J model. Any offering of the KC-390 to Riyadh would augment its tactical transport fleet, which is due an expansion in line with its increased combat air numbers. BAE systems has a long relationship in the Gulf region, and has sold defense aerospace solutions into Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman in recent years. Embraer had an earlier agreement with Boeing to aid the C-390’s penetration in markets such as the Middle East, which had since lapsed.