DefenseEmbraer lines up U.S. production options for KC-390
Embraer has already identified potential locations in the United States to assemble the KC-390 military transport aircraft and source local components — a crucial step to comply with U.S. procurement rules such as the Buy American Act.
The move positions the Brazilian manufacturer to compete in future aerial refueling programs for the U.S. Air Force (USAF).
Embraer executives told Flight Global that the plan includes establishing a final assembly line and a local supply chain for parts and systems. These measures would allow the KC-390 to meet domestic content requirements and qualify for U.S. government contracts.
More than 50% of the aircraft’s materials are already sourced from 59 U.S.-based aerospace suppliers, which Embraer says provides a strong foundation for U.S.-based production.
Request for Information
The company sees the platform as a candidate for the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Refueling System (NGAS) program — an initiative aimed at developing a new, survivable tanker for more contested operational environments in the 2030s.
Embraer even partnered with L3Harris to propose a tactical tanker variant of the KC-390 for the US market, but the partnership was dissolved. Since then, a new announcement has been awaited—Northrop Grumman is reportedly a candidate.
The company plans to formally respond to the Air Force’s recent Request for Information (RFI) by October 24. U.S.-based assembly would make the aircraft eligible for consideration under current procurement laws.
The KC-390’s design includes features such as defensive aids, high-speed cruise, and advanced fly-by-wire controls, which Embraer highlights as a foundation for further enhancements — including electronic warfare systems — to meet NGAS requirements. The aircraft is currently in service or on order with 11 operators worldwide, including several European and Asian air forces.
While the NGAS program remains in early development, with about $13 million allocated for fiscal year 2026, the Air Force maintains its goal of fielding a next-generation tanker in the early 2030s. Potential competitors include Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Airbus, making U.S.-based production a strategic prerequisite for Embraer to compete on equal footing.
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Ricardo Meier
Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.
