Embraer takes a major step forward by signing an Industrial Cooperation Agreement (ICA) with the Czech Ministry of Defense (MOD). This strategic agreement reflects Embraer’s deep commitment to strengthening its long-term partnership with the Czech Republic, aiming to enhance local industrial and technological capabilities while fostering innovation, creating highly qualified jobs, and contributing to the growth of the countries’ aerospace and defense sector.
Separate agreements signed during the ceremony will increase Aero Vodochody’s workshare on the C-390 Millennium program and knowledge exchange, as well as the transfer of know-how and expertise to LOM Praha.
Director General for Industrial Cooperation of the Czech MOD Mrs Radka Konderlova further added: “Industrial cooperation is an important part of all strategic armament projects, including the procurement of C-390 Millennium aircraft. Thanks to its long-term engagement with the Czech industry dating back to the development phase of C-390, Embraer was an excellent partner throughout the negotiations of the Industrial Cooperation Agreement. The company was able to propose projects that will significantly contribute to securing essential security interests of the Czech Republic. In addition, Embraer commits to explore further opportunities to work with the Czech industry to expand and strengthen its global supply chain”.
“We are thrilled to extend our cooperation with the Czech Republic, a nation with a rich history in aerospace and defense. Aero Vodochody, LOM Praha and the local universities are essential partners. We look forward to working together while contributing to the growth of the Czech aerospace industry”, said Jose Gustavo, Vice President of Sales and Business Development at Embraer Defense & Security for Europe and Africa.
“This contract is a significant milestone for Aero, with a positive impact on the whole Czech industry. Through our increased cooperation, we will focus on the continued development of the supply chain, technology investments and preparation for rapid production growth, all of which are of utmost importance for our company”, said Mr Viktor Sotona, President & CEO at Aero Vodochody.
“This cooperation agreement is a major milestone for LOM Praha; cooperating with Embraer is for us the perfect opportunity to acquire significant expertise and know-how on new generation military transport aircraft”, said Mr Jiří Protiva, CEO at LOM Praha.
Aero Vodochody, a key Czech aerospace manufacturer, has been an integral partner in the C-390 Millennium program since its inception in 2011, producing the rear fuselage, the doors for paratroopers and crew, the emergency door and hatches, the cargo ramp, and the fixed leading edge. The cooperation agreement will represent an increase of C-390 parts manufactured in Aero and the implementation of new industrial capabilities, with a positive impact in terms of jobs created in the Czech Republic and the value of the exports from this company.
The state-owned Maintenance Repair and Overhaul company, LOM Praha, will benefit from knowledge exchange on the C-390 aircraft’s maintenance, preparing its technicians to perform organic and intermediate maintenance activities and enabling the company to be integrated into the C-390’s life cycle management. Additionally, this agreement will also allow the companies to explore further opportunities in services and support for the C-390, paving the way for a possible long-term partnership.
This new milestone reinforces Embraer’s commitment to strengthening its ties with its local partners, thus contributing to their growth.
As part of its strategy, Embraer also intends to collaborate with local universities and research institutions on advanced aerospace projects. These initiatives will foster knowledge exchange, create opportunities for Czech engineering talent, and drive forward innovation in next-generation aerospace technologies.
