Embraer's KC-390 tactical transport aircraft successfully performed its maiden flight

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Embraer's KC-390 tactical transport aircraft successfully performed its maiden flight
 
Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer today announced that the first prototype of the KC-390 transport aircraft has successfully performed its maiden flight. This first prototype rolled out from the Embraer subsidiary plant, Embraer Defense and Security, at Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo on 21 October 2014.
     
Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer today announced that the first prototype of the KC-390 transport aircraft has successfully performed its maiden flight. This first prototype rolled out from the Embraer subsidiary plant, Embraer Defense and Security, at Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo on 21 October 2014. Embraer's KC-390 military airlifter during its maiden flight on February 3rd
(Credit: Embraer)
     
Developing the KC-390, the biggest plane Embraer has produced, cost $1.9 billion, paid by the Brazilian Air Force in partnership with Argentina, the Czech Republic and Portugal.

Embraer is targeting 728 sales of the new aircraft in 77 countries for receipts of $50 billion.

In May 2014, the company signed a contract with the FAB to supply 28 KC-390 over ten years in a $3.2 billion deal as the FAB gradually retires the US Lockheed Hercules C-130.

Amorim said co-developers Argentina, the Czech Republic and Portugal had also signaled their intention to buy airframes, as had Colombia and Chile. The KC-390 project, largely financed by the FAB, was launched in 2009.

The medium-size, twin-engine jet-powered aircraft is capable of transporting up to 23 tons of cargo and boasts a maximum cruising speed of 860 kilometers (550 miles) per hour. The plane will provide logistical back-up on military, humanitarian and search-and-rescue missions.