NEW DELHI– Embraer and India’s Mahindra Group have announced plans to establish a dedicated maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility in India if the C-390 Millennium secures the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft requirement. The proposed MRO ecosystem would directly support a future fleet of tactical airlifters and align with India’s defense modernization.
The announcement follows Embraer’s showcase of the C-390 at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, where the aircraft drew attention as a contender to replace aging transport fleets. India is expected to procure between 60 and 80 new airlifters to succeed its Antonov An-32 and Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft under the government’s Make in India policy framework.
Embarer Mahindra Eyes C-390 MRO
Embraer and Mahindra confirmed that the proposed MRO facility would provide base and heavy maintenance services for the C-390 fleet.
The scope would include structural inspections, component repair and overhaul, testing, and specialized training programs to ensure operational readiness.
The companies emphasized that the facility would strengthen domestic defense capabilities while reducing lifecycle costs. By localizing maintenance operations, India could achieve faster turnaround times and build technical expertise within its aerospace workforce.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, stated that the company aims to deliver not only a modern aircraft but also a comprehensive support structure tailored to India’s operational needs.
The long-term plan focuses on sustainable industrial growth rather than a short-term procurement arrangement.
C-390 Competition
The C-390 faces stiff competition in India’s Medium Transport Aircraft program. Lockheed Martin has offered the C-130J Super Hercules in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems, which already manufactures the aircraft’s empennage in Hyderabad.
According to Flight Global, the Indian Air Force currently operates 12 C-130J-30 aircraft configured for special operations, providing Lockheed Martin with an established footprint.
Airbus Defence & Space has also strengthened its position through its C295 production line in collaboration with Tata, and it recently launched a private-sector helicopter assembly line for the H125 in India.
India’s upcoming request for proposals will likely mandate substantial local production and technology transfer.
The Make in India initiative requires foreign defense suppliers to establish meaningful industrial participation within the country.
Industrial Partnerships Expand
Beyond the MRO plan, Embraer has deepened its industrial outreach in India. The company signed a memorandum of understanding with Hindalco Industries, India’s largest aluminum producer, to explore opportunities in aerospace-grade aluminum supply.
This collaboration aims to integrate Indian suppliers into Embraer’s global supply chain.
Roberto Chaves, Embraer’s supply chain leader, noted that local sourcing would accelerate the development of India’s aerospace ecosystem and create long-term value across the sector.
The Mahindra partnership further reinforces this strategy. By combining local industrial expertise with Embraer’s aircraft platform, the companies intend to present a competitive and compliant bid for the MTA requirement.
Bottom Line
If selected, the C-390 program could significantly expand India’s airlift capacity while advancing domestic manufacturing and MRO capabilities.
The final decision will shape the future of India’s tactical air mobility fleet for decades.
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