Advancements in Aerial Refueling: The Collaboration Between Saab, Embraer, and the Brazilian Air Force

Successful Completion of In-Flight Refueling Certification

On November 14, 2025, Saab and Embraer, in partnership with the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), achieved a significant milestone by completing the certification flight test campaign for in-flight refueling of the F-39 E Gripen fighter utilizing the KC-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft. This rigorous testing program, conducted at Embraer’s Gripen Flight Test Centre in São Paulo, underscores Brazil’s growing prominence in advanced military aviation technologies.

Collaborative Efforts and Technical Achievements

Under the auspices of the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology (DCTA) of the FAB, this initiative brought together a dedicated team of engineers and test pilots from Saab, Embraer, and the Brazilian Air Force. The campaign involved a series of methodical evaluations across various flight configurations, speeds, and altitudes to ensure the precision of the in-flight refueling process. Both aircraft’s state-of-the-art fly-by-wire systems played a crucial role, with the KC-390 providing a conducive aerodynamic environment and the Gripen E demonstrating exceptional agility during maneuvers.

Flight Test Objectives

The certification campaign served dual purposes:

• Qualification of the Gripen E: Establishing the fighter as a competent receiver for aerial refueling, thereby validating its performance, stability, and structural integrity during operations.
• Compatibility Verification: Assessing the synergies between the Gripen E and KC-390 across the full operational flight envelope, which included high-speed refueling capabilities under both diurnal and nocturnal conditions.

These objectives further enhance the interoperability between these advanced aircraft, thereby bolstering their collective operational capabilities.

Strategic Implications

Mikael Olsson, Head of Flight Testing at Saab, emphasized that this accomplishment represents not just a technical achievement but a pivotal enhancement in operational reach for the Gripen E. The success of the testing campaign not only highlights the effective collaboration between Brazil and Sweden but also signifies Brazil’s integral role in the global Gripen program.

Walter Pinto Júnior, Chief Operations Officer of Embraer Defense & Security, added that this milestone underscores the exceptional capabilities of the KC-390 as a tanker aircraft. Its versatility allows for rapid conversion into a refueling platform, providing unparalleled flexibility for air forces globally.

Colonel Aviator George Luiz Guedes de Oliveira remarked on the international nature of this collaboration, noting that it combines Swedish innovation with Brazilian engineering excellence and outstanding operational capabilities from the FAB.

Certification Process and Future Outlook

The Swedish Military Aviation Authority (SE-MAA) will commence its review of the verification data concerning the Gripen E’s air-to-air refueling capability as part of its certification procedure. This process will be complemented by an evaluation from the Industrial Promotion and Coordination Institute (IFI) of the FAB, which holds responsibility for comprehensive technical assessment and result validation. Both institutions will ensure compliance with rigorous international safety and performance benchmarks.

Operation Samaúma: A Leap Forward

Designated as Operation Samaúma, this test campaign incorporated approximately 40 professionals and firmly establishes Brazil among the few nations proficient in the development, testing, and complete validation of indigenous in-flight refueling systems. This achievement represents a considerable leap forward in enhancing Brazil’s defense capabilities and technological independence.

In summary, the successful collaboration between Saab, Embraer, and the Brazilian Air Force not only marks a crucial technical and operational milestone but also sets the stage for enhanced joint military capabilities in the future, reinforcing Brazil’s strategic positioning in the global defense landscape.