Interview MT 3/2022 · 79 represented in some of the nations I just mentioned. Yes, we still have the possibility to sell it, maybe for training, as we are currently discussing it with some countries. The C-390 is a solution that fits very well for the missions that are required in these nations. MilTech: What new products or capabilities can we expect from Embraer in the near future? Schneider: Embraer is always engaging and developing – we never stop. This is a normal process for us. But I would say that in defence, we are very keen on UAVs, and we are doing our homework. We must come up with new solutions, even breakthrough solutions in some specific areas. We have even discussed the new plane, the STOUT, which we announced last year, but I must say that UAVs are the most interesting product area for us. MilTech: What about Manned-Unmanned Teaming with UAVs – for example, with the C-390? Schneider: Could be, because for me, UAV systems for aviation will be present in all categories of aviation, and in all dimensions. And, for sure, the UAV product itself will be integrated, not only with the C-390, but with the Super Tucano. UAVs constitute an important subject in all operations, and we will have engagement with partners. We will not be alone. the defence portfolio’s various solutions, such as radars, sensors, cyber, and air traffic management control – all of which we are promoting here, as FIDAE is a very important air show for us. We have here the possibility to meet with customers, also our supply base, and the companies we have partnerships with, and are glad to see the world coming back to real life, which is something that we all missed. To have meetings in person is important for our business. MilTech: You already mentioned the KC-390 and A-29. What future do you expect for these two? Schneider: The A-29 Super Tucano is already a very consolidated airplane. We have sold the aircraft to more than 15 countries, with more than 260 planes flying around on different continents, with some facing combat in ‘hot zones’ because of the political circumstances in some of the countries. We are continuing to improve and enhance the plane’s solutions, by making updates according to the most modern solutions in the market, regarding the weapon system, and all kinds of mission systems. This is a multipurpose plane, unique in the market. It can fill the light attack mission, it can provide training, and it can do reconnaissance. This is really good, and I believe that it is by far the best plane in its category. Also, the C-390 is a new plane on the market. We just delivered the fifth unit to the Brazilian Air Force. We have sold it to Portugal and Hungary, both NATO air forces, and we are having meaningful sales campaigns around the world. It is absolutely an updated plane, and multipurpose as well, with very low costs in this category, not only in terms of operational costs, but also in maintenance costs. Multipurpose means it can be used for a wide area of missions, like search and rescue, medical evacuation, and firefighting, but also for cargo transport, troops, paratroopers, cargo drops, and many more. Let me say, it is a very flexible plane, because it can conduct a lot of missions. And it is the best and different from all the other planes in this category, because you can change from one variant to another in a matter of hours. It is very easy to go from one mission to another with the C-390. MilTech: Is there continuing development for the KC-390 – improvements, new sensors…? Schneider: In defence, we never stop enhancing a plane – just like in aviation in general. There is always the possibility to improve and add new solutions, new systems, and new software to the plane. It is the same with the C-390 and now, we have certified some of the missions. For instance, this aircraft will be prepared for missions in Antarctica, and will be prepared for refuelling plane-to-plane, plane-to-jet fighters, and plane-to-choppers. This means there is a lot of flexibility and a lot of possibilities – some have been certified, while others are still in the process of being certified. MilTech: You just signed two contracts with the Brazilian Army. What major South American procurement programmes are you looking at? Schneider: We can’t talk about all campaigns, because some of them are classified for the nature of the business. We have just signed two important ones in South America, one for radars for the Brazilian Army and one for the new phase of the surveillance system. We are still in discussion with some clients and have a presence in the region in countries like Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Brazil, of course, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, with a special mission in Argentina and even Mexico. It means, we are expanding our position in the region, and we continue to talk with customers and engage in new campaigns. MilTech: If you can’t talk about specific procurement programmes, in which topical areas do you see the greatest potential for your solutions? Schneider: That depends on the country. The C-390 is the highest potential one, that I can see, as the Super Tucano is already well The interior design of the KC-390 offers a very creditable usable volume for cargo or personnel transport missions.
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