Brazilian aerospace firm Embraer and Mahindra Aerospace have signed an agreement to set up a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India for the C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft, officials said on Tuesday.
The proposed MRO facility will support the operational readiness and sustainment of the C-390 Millennium fleet deployed by India’s defence forces, enhancing availability and turnaround times for critical air transport operations.
Under the collaboration, Embraer will leverage its technology and aircraft expertise, while Mahindra Aerospace will contribute its established manufacturing and aerospace services footprint in India. The facility is expected to provide comprehensive maintenance support, including structural repairs, systems checks, component overhauls and avionics servicing.
The announcement comes as the Indian Air Force inducts the C-390 Millennium aircraft, which is designed for tactical airlift, humanitarian assistance, search and rescue, aerial delivery and other defence missions. Setting up an in-country MRO capability is aimed at reducing dependence on overseas servicing, cutting logistical costs and improving operational efficiency for the fleet.
Officials said the facility will be configured to meet exacting aerospace industry standards, with advanced tooling and processes tailored for the C-390 platform. The collaboration is expected to generate skilled jobs, enhance technology transfer and support the development of ancillary capabilities in India’s aerospace segment.
This partnership reflects broader efforts to strengthen India’s defence industrial base, especially in aerospace sustainment and indigenous servicing infrastructure. Establishing local MRO capacity is seen as a key step in enhancing self-reliance and long-term operational support for modern military aircraft.
Industry analysts said the move could also pave the way for expanded aftermarket services in the region, positioning India as a support hub for C-390 operators and potentially enabling future exports of aerospace maintenance services.
The timelines for operationalisation of the facility, investment details and specific location are expected to be announced as the project progresses toward execution.