Embraer Defense & Security has signed a Letter of Intent with aviation services company SkyTech for up to six new KC-390 multi-mission tactical transport aircraft.

The aircraft will be offered for lease for a range of defence projects. The two companies have also agreed on a potential strategic collaboration to jointly explore new business opportunities in training and services.

SkyTech is the result of a partnership between two long-standing players in the field of defence services: aircraft, complete crew, maintenance, and insurance (ACMI) company HiFly, from Portugal, and Australian aviation services and charter provider Adagold Aviation.

SkyTech says that this is the first of a wide variety of platforms that will fulfil various niche roles and projects that SkyTech is undertaking worldwide.

The KC-390 – which can transport up to 26t of cargo at a maximum speed of 470 knots – is capable of carrying out various missions, such as transporting cargo, troops or paratroopers, aerial refuelling, in addition to supporting humanitarian missions, search and rescue missions, medical evacuation and aerial firefighting. The aircraft is designed to operate in hostile environments, including unprepared or damaged runways.

Initial deliveries of the KC-390 - to the Brazilian Air Force - are scheduled to take place this year. The aircraft is being jointly marketed with Boeing.