Embraer Proposes Armed Variant of C-390M for IAF’s Transport Aircraft Tender

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Embraer, in its briefing to the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) tender for 60 transporters, has introduced a bold new proposition: the C-390M Millennium equipped with hardpoints under its wings to carry air-to-surface weapon systems. This capability, aimed at providing anti-land and anti-ship operational capabilities, could position the C-390M as a versatile, multi-role platform, beyond its primary transport functions.

The C-390M can potentially be outfitted with multiple hardpoints under each wing. These hardpoints would support heavy stand-off weapon systems, such as the Rudram-II (approximately 800 kg), an air-to-surface missile developed for the IAF.