Embraer unveils first C-390 military transport for Uzbekistan
Its delivery expected later this year
Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer has revealed the first C-390 transport aircraft built for Uzbekistan. Photos published on the company’s social media accounts show the aircraft wearing the roundels of the Central Asian nation’s air force and bearing tail number UK 39010.
Tashkent’s order for two aircraft of the type was first disclosed in February. At the time, an Embraer representative confirmed that the first airframe was scheduled for delivery to the customer in 2026.
Embraer has now clarified that Uzbekistan will receive the pure transport variant designated as the C-390. The baseline KC-390 variant comes equipped with aerial refueling equipment, allowing it to function both as a receiver and a tanker.
Tashkent is the tenth customer for the KC-390 program and the first in Central Asia. The medium twin-engine turbofan tactical airlifter can transport a maximum payload of up to 26 metric tons over a range of 2,000 km (1,080 nautical miles). The Uzbek Air Force currently operates light transport aircraft including the An-26 and CASA C-295W, as well as medium An-12 and heavy Il-76 freighters.
