GAVIAO PEIXOTO, Brazil -Embraer rolled out the initial prototype of its new KC-390 military transport on October 21 from the production hangar at the company's industrial plant in Gaviao Peixoto, Brazil. Embraer will now conduct ground tests on the aircraft prior to its first flight, which is planned to take place by the end of 2014.
"This significant milestone of the KC-390 program demonstrates Embraer's ability to manage such a complex and high technology project and to perform it on track," said Jackson Schneider, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. "It paves the way for the beginning of the ground tests to prepare for the first flight."
Following the rollout, the KC-390 will continue with initial systems evaluations leading to the first engine run and then to ground vibration tests and other planned ground tests. The aircraft is the first of two prototypes that will be used in the development, ground, flight, and certification test campaigns.
The KC-390 is a joint project of the Brazilian Air Force and Embraer to develop and produce a tactical military transport and aerial refueling aircraft. In May 2014, Embraer and the Air Force signed a series production contract for the delivery of 28 KC-390s and associated initial logistic support. In addition, Embraer has received intentions to purchase a further 32 KC-390s from other countries.
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