Greece has signed an agreement with Portugal to acquire three Embraer KC-390 Millennium aircraft, with an option for three additional units. The acquisition will provide the Hellenic Air Force with its first organic aerial refuelling capability.
The agreement was signed in Athens on 2 November 2026 by Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and his Portuguese counterpart, Nuno Melo. The first aircraft is expected to be delivered in 2027, with the remaining two scheduled to follow by 2031.
The KC-390 will initially be configured to refuel Greece's Rafale and Mirage 2000 fighters, with integration for the F-16 fleet also planned. The aircraft uses a hose-and-drogue system, allowing compatible fighters to receive fuel while airborne.
The introduction of aerial refuelling will significantly expand the operational flexibility of the Greek Air Force. Its combat aircraft will be able to remain on station for longer periods, extend their range and conduct missions further from their home bases, an important consideration in the eastern Mediterranean.
Beyond its tanker role, the KC-390 is a versatile tactical transport aircraft capable of carrying up to 26 tonnes of cargo. Its missions include troop and equipment transport, airdrop operations, medical evacuation and humanitarian assistance.
Portugal will support the programme through training, technical assistance and logistical cooperation, drawing on its experience operating the Brazilian-designed aircraft.
With this acquisition, Greece is addressing a long-standing gap in its military aviation capabilities while adding a modern transport platform that can perform several complementary missions. The KC-390 will therefore play a role not only in extending the endurance of Greek fighter aircraft, but also in strengthening the country's wider air mobility capabilities.
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