The Brazilian company AEL Sistemas, based in Porto Alegre, was selected by Embraer Defense and Security to supply three more components to the KC-390 military airlifter and tanker jet: the self-protection system (SPS); the directed infrared countermeasures (DIRCM); and the head-up display (HUD).

Embraer is developing the KC-390 under a contract with the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), that has the final word on the selection of suppliers for systems considered as strategic, such as propulsion, avionics, mission, self-protection, cargo handling and aerial delivery, among others. AEL was selected by Embraer, last September, to supply the new jet’s mission computers. The aircraft flight tests will begin in 2014, and first delivery is expected for 2016.

“The KC-390 is being designed to operate all over the world, in different scenarios, with the same outstanding performance,” said Eduardo Bonini Santos Pinto, Vice President Operations & COO, Embraer Defense and Security. “The selection of the main suppliers is of utmost relevance for us to achieve our commitment with the Brazilian Air Force of placing the KC-390 at the highest technology standard, as a unique aircraft that will add much value for Brazil.”

Shlomo Erez, President of AEL, commented: “We are very proud to have been selected to provide Embraer’s KC-390 with our cutting-edge technological systems – the SPS, DIRCM and HUD – in addition to the mission computer that has already been selected. This selection attests to AEL’s relevance to the most advanced aircraft industries, and we are pleased to have this opportunity to share our know-how and proven experience with our partners Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force.”