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Northrop Grumman and Embraer Jointly Developing Advanced Air Mobility Capabilities for US and Allied Nations

February 20, 2026
Source:  Northrop Grumman

FALLS CHURCH, Va. – Feb. 19, 2026 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) and Embraer (NYSE: EMBJ; B3: EMBJ3) are working together to evolve the multi-mission KC-390 Millennium aircraft, to provide advanced tanking capabilities for the United States Air Force and allied nations. Together, the two companies are addressing the need for agile combat employment through joint investment and a focus on quickly delivering capabilities to the warfighter.

  • The companies are joining forces to combine their insights and experiences to rapidly advance the initiatives required to deliver a next generation air-refueling system.

  • Drawing on the companies’ extensive expertise in aircraft design, development and production with systems integration and industry-leading manufacturing capabilities, this collaboration sets the stage for the development of the KC-390 Multi-Mission Tanker for the U.S. and allied air forces and shapes the requirements for future aerial logistics architectures.

  • Key features will include an advanced autonomous aerial refueling boom, enhanced communications, situational awareness and survivability options, as well as adaptable mission systems. These improvements will expand the range of aircraft supported by KC-390 refueling operations and broaden its mission scope in operational environments.

Experts:

Tom Jones, corporate vice president and president, Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems: “Northrop Grumman, together with Embraer, is making strategic investments to address the gap in advanced air mobility solutions globally. We’re listening to our customers, particularly in allied nations who seek greater operational autonomy and efficiency, and we’re exploring new technologies that will increase the versatility of the proven KC-390 platform and deliver that greater operational independence our customers need.”

Bosco da Costa Junior, president and CEO, Embraer Defense & Security: “Together, we will leverage the strengths of two leaders in the defense industry, with a focus on developing a boom refueling system for the KC-390 Millennium so that we can bring the right capability to the U.S. Department of War and other allied nations. The KC-390 is an operationally proven and cost-effective platform that could quickly be added to the U.S. Air Force inventory.”