Lithuania’s Strategic Acquisition of the C-390 Millennium: A Leap in Military Capability

Introduction

On June 18, 2025, during the prestigious Paris Air Show, the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence formally announced its decision to procure the C-390 Millennium from Embraer. This strategic choice underscores Lithuania’s commitment to enhancing its operational readiness and aligning closely with NATO standards.

Enhancing Interoperability

Lithuania’s selection of the C-390 Millennium reflects the nation’s ongoing effort to improve its military infrastructure and interoperability with other NATO allies. According to Loreta Maskaliovienė, Lithuania’s Vice Minister of National Defence, extensive evaluations of military transport options culminated in a decisive preference for the C-390, which meets critical national operational demands.

Key Benefits of the C-390 Millennium

• Versatility: The C-390 offers multi-role capabilities that support various military operations, including cargo transport, aerial refueling, and strategic medical evacuation.
• Technological Edge: With advanced avionics and a modern design, the aircraft enhances operational efficiency while minimizing logistical challenges.
• Scalable Options: The procurement includes provisions for additional aircraft, reinforcing collaborative defense capabilities among NATO members.

The Acquisition Process

The selection initiates a formal acquisition procedure governed by Lithuania’s national legal framework. Expected negotiations with Embraer aim to finalize the contract in the upcoming months. This acquisition aligns with broader trends, as several European nations have recently opted for the C-390 Millennium, signaling a growing confidence in its capabilities.

Expanding the C-390 User Base

Lithuania’s decision marks it as the eighth European country to adopt the C-390 Millennium, joining a list that includes:

• Portugal: Originally contracted for five aircraft, later expanded to six.
• Hungary: Ordered two units in 2020.
• Netherlands and Austria: Secured five and four aircraft respectively in 2024.
• Czech Republic: Acquired two aircraft in late 2024.
• Sweden: Committed to four units in April 2025.
• Slovakia: Announced intentions to negotiate for three aircraft at the end of 2024.

Additionally, South Korea’s order for three aircraft and Brazil’s existing commitment of 19 units highlight the C-390’s international appeal.

Collaborative Employment Scenarios

Recent orders from Portugal and the Netherlands include options for further aircraft, promoting potential integration within multinational operations. This trend reflects a broader shift towards collaborative defense frameworks, ensuring that allied nations can operate seamlessly amid various mission profiles.

Momentum and Industry Perspective

Bosco da Costa Junior, Embraer’s President and CEO of Defense & Security, noted the “remarkable momentum” surrounding the C-390 program, attributing this to a confluence of operational performance and customer confidence. The aircraft has gained traction as nations seek modern, cost-effective solutions for transport and logistical support in an increasingly complex security landscape.

Conclusion

Lithuania’s commitment to the C-390 Millennium not only bolsters its own capabilities but also illustrates a strategic alignment with NATO goals. As European nations collectively enhance their military transport capacities, the C-390 emerges as a cornerstone of modern defense strategies, reflecting adaptability and shared responsibility among allied forces. This acquisition serves as a testament to Lithuania’s proactive defense posture in a dynamic geopolitical environment.