Embraer Deepens Middle East Defense Partnerships

Our Bureau - : Nov 18, 2025 - : 3:50 am

Embraer has taken another major step in expanding its defense footprint in the Middle East, signing two new Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with UAE-based AMMROC (Advanced Military Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Center) and GAL (Global Aerospace Logistics). Announced during Dubai Airshow 2025, the agreements reinforce the company’s growing commitment to the region and open the door to extensive cooperation around the KC-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft.

The partnerships aim to explore joint opportunities across the Aerospace & Defense sectors, with a strong focus on Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), technical training, fleet support, and broader aftermarket services. The MoUs also establish a framework for future collaboration on engineering modifications, logistics solutions, and lifecycle support for regional defense customers.

Over the coming months, Embraer, AMMROC, and GAL will develop a detailed work plan outlining cooperative projects and potential end-user requirements. This roadmap will assess areas such as KC-390 operational support, tailored training programs, and expansion of engineering capabilities—ensuring that regional customers receive comprehensive, high-readiness solutions.

Jasem Al Marzooqi, CEO of AMMROC, said the partnership supports the company’s mission to expand its technical capabilities and regional leadership. “This MoU marks a significant step toward expanding AMMROC’s capabilities through cooperation with one of the world’s foremost aircraft manufacturers,” he said. “It reinforces our shared vision of delivering mission-ready, in-service support solutions locally, regionally and beyond.”

GAL’s Acting CEO Abdelrahman AlHammadi highlighted the strategic strength of the collaboration. “Our partnership with Embraer and AMMROC strengthens sovereign defense capability and ensures unmatched readiness for the KC-390 Millennium,” he said. “Together, we reinforce the UAE’s position as a regional hub for world-class aerospace services.”

Embraer Defense & Security President and CEO Bosco Da Costa Junior emphasised the long-term strategic nature of the agreements. “These partnerships reflect Embraer’s strong commitment to the UAE and wider Middle East,” he noted. “By joining forces with AMMROC and GAL, we aim to elevate local capabilities and deliver world-class support for the KC-390 Millennium.”

Since entering service with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, followed by Portugal in 2023 and Hungary in 2024, the KC-390 Millennium has demonstrated impressive performance

and reliability. Current operators report a 93% mission capability rate and mission completion rates above 99%, placing the aircraft among the most dependable in its class.

The C-390 carries a 26-ton payload, exceeding other medium-sized military transport aircraft, and offers higher speed (470 knots) and longer range. Its multi-mission flexibility covers cargo and troop transport, paratroop operations, medical evacuation, firefighting, search and rescue, and humanitarian relief. The aircraft can operate on temporary or unpaved runways, including compacted earth and gravel.

Configured for air-to-air refueling as the KC-390, the aircraft has proven its capability both as a tanker and as a receiver—even refueling another KC-390 during operational testing.

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