Brazil’s Embraer SA, the world’s biggest maker of regional jets, signed a contract to supply 28 KC-390 cargo aircraft to Brazil’s Air Force on Tuesday, a step in the country’s effort to bulk up its homegrown defense industry.
The deal, worth $3.26 billion, will enter the planemaker’s firm order book after final paperwork is completed, which should occur within 90 days, according to a company statement. The deal includes logistic support, spare parts and maintenance.
Embraer designed the KC-390 to compete with Lockheed Martin Corp’s storied Hercules C-130 series of airlifters, promising an aircraft that flies higher and faster and carries more cargo at a lower price.
The move is part of Brazil’s campaign for credibility as a player on the world stage. After years sprucing up second-hand military gear, the South American powerhouse is looking to develop its homegrown defense industry and export into a shrinking global market.
The first KC-390 aircraft is scheduled for delivery at the end of 2016, and additional deliveries will continue over a period of ten years, the statement added.
Embraer shares rose 1.56 percent to 18.91 reais in afternoon Sao Paulo trading.
