VIENNA, Sept 21 – The Austrian government has announced plans to replace the role of the C-130 Hercules transport aircraft that has served in the country’s air force for 20 years.
This was announced by Austrian Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner, who stated that the C-390 Millennium aircraft has been selected as the replacement for the Hercules.
The Austrian Ministry of Defense stated that the time has come for them to replace the role of the C-130 Hercules aircraft.
“The acquisition plan to replace the C-130 began in 2021 and includes the purchase of 4 new aircraft,” the statement said.
According to her, the C-390 aircraft was chosen because it meets the criteria desired by Vienna.
The Austrian Air Force has operated a total of 3 C-130 aircraft since 2023.
“The C-130 has successfully carried out many missions. Now it’s time for the C-390 to replace this aircraft,” the statement clarified.
The acquisition plan for 4 C-390 aircraft by Vienna is expected to cost around 130 to 150 million Euros.
Embraer welcomed the decision by the Austrian Ministry of Defense in a statement.
According to them, this selection makes the European country join Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, and the Netherlands in operating the C-390.
“Embraer is ready to assist the Austrian Ministry of Defense and its air force in meeting their desired requirements,” they said in a statement.
The C-390 Millennium is a medium-sized transport aircraft produced by the Brazilian company, Embraer.
At present, the C-390 is operated by Brazil and Portugal.
Austria has followed in the footsteps of the Netherlands and Portugal in acquiring the same aircraft to replace the role of the C-130.
The C-390 can carry a load of 26,000 kilograms. This twin-engine aircraft can also transport 80 troop members or 66 paratroopers. – airtimes.my
