Embraer has proposed an innovative solution to the Indian Air Force (IAF) for its Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) tender, which seeks 60 transporters. The company introduced the armed variant of the C-390M Millennium, featuring hardpoints under its wings to carry air-to-surface weapon systems. This enhancement would transform the C-390M into a versatile multi-role platform, capable of performing both transport and combat missions, including anti-land and anti-ship operations.The C-390M could be equipped with multiple hardpoints on each wing, capable of carrying advanced heavy stand-off weapons like the Rudram-II, an 800 kg air-to-surface missile developed for the IAF. It could also support NASM-MR or Medium-Range Anti-Ship Missiles (MRAShM), enabling the platform to perform anti-ship roles for the Indian Navy.Additionally, Embraer envisions evolving the C-390M into a mothership for air-launched drones, in line with modern air warfare trends. This capability would support the IAF’s need for swarm or autonomous UAV deployment, offering a cutting-edge addition to its operational capabilities.
