Mahindra Group and Brazilian aerospace company Embraer have identified Nagpur in Maharashtra as the proposed location for a Final Assembly Line for the C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. The plan is linked to the Indian Air Force Medium Transport Aircraft programme, under which India may procure 60 to 80 aircraft.
C-390 Millennium
The C-390 Millennium is a twin-engine, medium-lift military transport aircraft developed by Embraer. It is designed for troop transport, cargo carriage, medical evacuation, aerial refuelling, and humanitarian missions.
Proposed Facility in Nagpur
The proposed Nagpur facility is expected to handle aircraft assembly, system integration, manufacturing engineering, and local supply chain development. The Government of Maharashtra has already allocated land for the prospective facility.
India-Brazil Aerospace Cooperation
Embraer and Mahindra signed a Strategic Cooperation Agreement in October 2025 for the C-390 Millennium programme. The two companies had earlier signed a Memorandum of Understanding in February 2024, and they announced plans in February 2026 to establish Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul capabilities in India.
Important Facts for Exams
- The C-390 Millennium is a military transport aircraft developed by Embraer of Brazil.
- Final Assembly Line facilities are used for the last stage of aircraft production and integration.
- The Indian Air Force Medium Transport Aircraft programme is linked to medium-lift transport aircraft procurement.
- Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat are Indian initiatives associated with domestic manufacturing and self-reliance.
Defence Manufacturing in India
India’s defence procurement plans often include local production, technology transfer, and industrial participation. The C-390 proposal includes integration of Indian aerospace companies into the aircraft ecosystem.
Maintenance and Support Infrastructure
Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facilities are used for servicing, inspection, repair, and lifecycle support of aircraft. Such facilities are part of long-term aviation support networks in military and civil aviation.
