Embraer, a prominent aerospace firm, is looking to expand its supply chain operations in India. Roberto Chaves, Embraer’s Executive Vice-President of Global Procurement and Supply Chain, highlighted India's growing aviation and defense industries as key opportunities for local manufacturers and systems developers to become crucial suppliers for the company. Embraer anticipates Indian manufacturers playing a pivotal role in supporting its defense, commercial aviation, and executive jet sectors.

A high-ranking Embraer delegation recently visited India to assess the possibility of integrating Indian suppliers into its supply chain. The company is exploring suppliers across various areas, including aerostructures, machining, composites, forgings, and software development. The visit aligns with the strengthening relations between Brazil and India, and Embraer recognizes India’s aerospace engineering expertise.

“India’s strong aviation and defense sectors offer a great opportunity for manufacturers and developers to become significant suppliers for Embraer”, said Chaves. He emphasized the shared goal of enhancing the aviation capabilities of both Brazil and India, aiming to provide greater value to customers globally.

India remains a critical market for Embraer, with over 44 aircraft in operation across its Commercial Aviation, Executive Jets, and Defense & Security divisions. The Indian government operates five Embraer VIP jets, and the Indian Air Force uses three EMB 145 AEW 'Netra' military aircraft.

One significant future opportunity for Embraer in India is its participation in the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program, where the company, in collaboration with Mahindra, is offering the C-390 Millennium transport aircraft. The partnership, announced in February 2024, reflects Embraer’s commitment to establishing a comprehensive supply chain in India, with potential plans to set up a C-390 assembly line.

Embraer views India as a vital partner in the region, and alongside Mahindra, it aims to contribute to the Indian government’s 'Make in India' initiative. Headquartered in Brazil, Embraer operates in Commercial and Executive aviation, Defense and Security, and Agricultural Aviation, offering aircraft design, development, and manufacturing, along with after-sales services and support.