C-390 is racing – “Krone” report confirms: Hercules successor repaired

As previously reported, the Brazilian aircraft will become the backbone of the army’s transport fleet. Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner: “True to our motto ‘Mission Forward’, we can now finally announce another important milestone for our air force. Since 2003, the three ‘Hercules’ aircraft have completed many missions and have always been a reliable means of transport for our soldiers.

Now it is time for the Embraer C-390 to replace the C-130 ‘Hercules’. Embraer’s aircraft system is the only one in the 20-ton class that meets all our requirements. With this tender we are taking another big step towards a modern army and thus greater security for the Austrian people.”

Up to 150 million per plane
The purchase of a successor started in 2021. The plan is to purchase four pieces to ensure availability for task completion. The purchase costs for an aircraft are between 130 and 150 million euros. Other countries, such as Brazil, Portugal and Hungary, already rely on the C-390. This creates opportunities for collaboration to make purchases more cost-effective and create synergies, for example in the field of training. One of the desired collaborations is with the Netherlands and negotiations are already underway. Delivery of the first new aircraft would be possible in 2026/2027 after successful negotiations.

Stationed in Linz
The C-130 “Hercules” aircraft were purchased second-hand 20 years ago and are 56 years old. Due to the necessary and expensive maintenance, it became necessary to purchase a successor system in the 20 ton class. The future aircraft system will also be based in Linz/Hörsching. The C-390 can carry up to 80 passengers.