Aerospace industry in Latin America

A21 Editorial / Thursday, May 1, 2025 - 01:00
THE AIRCRAFT COMPANY SHOWCASES THE CAPABILITIES OF ITS TANKER AIRCRAFT TO SENIOR NATO MILITARY COMMANDERS IN LAS VEGAS, HIGHLIGHTING ITS GLOBAL GROWTH AND FULL OPERATIONAL AVAILABILITY

Embraer
Embraer Defense & Security participated in the 47th annual Air Refueling Systems Advisory Group (ARSAG) conference, held from April 29 to May 1 in Las Vegas, Nevada (USA), where it exhibited a KC-390 Millennium aircraft operated by the Brazilian Air Force at the Atlantic Aviation FBO facilities, located at Harry Reid International Airport.

During the event's opening, Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, participated in the senior industry panel discussion, moderated by retired USAF Lieutenant General John B. Sams Jr., Chairman of the ARSAG Board, along with Richard J. Sullivan, Vice President of Growth and Strategy at Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems.

“We are very pleased to participate in ARSAG this year and to have the opportunity to present how Embraer and the KC-390 Millennium are poised to support the U.S. Department of Defense in overcoming key air-to-air refueling challenges facing the United States and its allied nations globally,” said Bosco da Costa Junior.

The executive added that this Embraer aircraft is quickly becoming the preferred choice among North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members and European allies, contributing to the modernization of their armed forces, incorporating new capabilities, and improving interoperability.

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The KC-390 is already operating in Brazil, Portugal, and Hungary, and has been ordered by the Netherlands, Austria, and the Czech Republic. Sweden and Slovakia have also recently selected the model, while South Korea joins the growing list of countries that have opted for this platform.

The KC-390 Millennium is in production and has been operating for several years with full operational capability. It is an off-the-shelf platform that is now available, capable of offering an affordable and mass-market solution for the US and global markets to address emerging threats.

This ARSAG forum brings together the US Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and Army with NATO members and allies from 20 nations, with the goal of promoting best practices and strengthening security in joint military operations and aerial refueling systems.

 
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The drone's design incorporates a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 160 kilograms, including a payload capacity of 20 kilograms and a fuel weight allowance of up to 46 kilograms. This balance between weight and capability ensures that the Anshar can deliver its payload precisely while maintaining extended operational range and speed. Such specifications not only highlight the drone's kamikaze mission profile but also its potential for varied military applications, from reconnaissance to direct engagement.

The Anshar stands out not only for its technological prowess but also for its operational efficiency. Designed to operate at a stunning maximum speed of 170 meters per second (approximately 612 kilometers per hour), it showcases versatility in altitude capabilities, with a minimum operational altitude of ten meters and a maximum reach of 8,000 meters. This adaptability ensures the drone's effectiveness in a variety of combat scenarios, from low-altitude engagements to high-altitude missions. Moreover, with a range of 100 kilometers and flight autonomy extending up to an hour, the Anshar can effectively engage targets at significant distances, enhancing its role as a strategic asset in military operations.

Set to be manufactured at Mac Jee's facilities in Vale do Paraíba, São Paulo, its production underscores Mac Jee's role as a pivotal player in the Brazilian Defense Industry Base, expanding the market reach of Brazilian-made defense solutions.


 
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The prototype, designed for national security tasks, stands out for its autonomy, communications capabilities, and operational versatility.
Andrea Torres
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April 24, 2025
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At the FAMEX 2025 event, Enrique Gerardo Sosa, rector of the Universidad Aeráutica in Querétaro (UNAQ), commented on the project, which highlighted technological innovation for national security.

"It's a drone with robust autonomy and communications capabilities, developed over two years in conjunction with Sedena (National Security Forces). It is already in its prototype phase, and we are about to begin flight testing,” explained the rector.

The model on display is designed to perform surveillance and defense tasks, with a command and control center capable of long-distance operations and a vertical or traditional takeoff and landing system, giving it broad operational versatility.

In addition to its focus on security, the project seeks to contribute to job creation, economic development, and the country's technological self-sufficiency. According to Sosa, “a drone of this type is very expensive on the international market, but manufactured with Mexican technology, it can cost only a fraction, allowing the government to acquire more units and thus strengthen security conditions.”

Nearly 20 students and 10 faculty members from UNAQ participated in the development, along with technical staff from Sedena (National Aeronautical Ministry) and CIDEFAM (National Aeronautical Commission for the Defense of the Nation).

The degree programs involved included engineering in aeronautical mechanical design, electronics, aircraft systems control, and aeronautical manufacturing.

“It's a project that requires many diverse capabilities due to its complex electronics, its display system, and the batteries that allow for high autonomy,” Sosa stated.

A long-term collaboration
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Photo: Miguel Flores
The alliance between UNAQ and the Ministry of Aerospace and Space Administration (Sedena) is not new. The Querétaro university has worked with the Ministry for more than a decade, consolidating a relationship that has allowed it to evolve from simple projects to developments of greater technical complexity.

“Today we have more than one active project with the Ministry of Aerospace and Space Administration (Sedena) and also with the Ministry of the Navy. We can't discuss all of them due to confidentiality, but this particular drone is being exhibited at FAMEX because it represents a watershed in terms of technical and technological scope,” the rector stated.

With this presentation, UNAQ reaffirms its role as a strategic player in national aerospace development, supporting the development of talent, innovation, and technological sovereignty from Querétaro.

With information from Miguel Flores


 

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vb_Rx8kOUi0

Welcome to our exclusive video interview recorded at Eurosatory 2024, featuring the innovative Brazilian defense company, Mac Jee. Known for its groundbreaking advancements in military technology, Mac Jee is rapidly expanding its global presence. With significant investments in Europe and the United States, and plans for future expansion into the Middle East, Mac Jee is establishing itself as a formidable player on the international defense stage. Today, we delve into their latest products, including the versatile Armadillo rocket launcher, state-of-the-art bombs, and the cutting-edge ANSHAR loitering munitions. Join us as we explore Mac Jee's vision, innovations, and strategic plans for the future.
 
Joint development with INVAP and Marinelli

Counter-rotating platform UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)

This prototype was born thru a Joint venture with INVAP and Marinelli. This Co-Axial rotating UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) named RUAS-160 is a compact, modular Rotary Wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System with counter-rotating coaxial rotors. This rotary unmanned aerial vehicle is controlled and monitored with a ground console.
Commercial Applications:

  • Surface Measuring and sizing, damage evaluations
  • Multispectral aerial imaging
  • Inspection of high and medium voltage lines
  • Assistance in forest fire outbreaks.
  • Aerial application of phytosanitary products.
  • Frost control in crops.
  • Cattle herding/counting.
  • Border Patrol/control
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Main technical features​


Autonomous Guidance, navigation, and control systems.​

Payload capacity in standard and optional configurations:
  • Gyro-stabilized platform with EO / IR Sensors.
  • Deployable sensor module for marine environments.
  • LiDAR.
  • Lightweight SAR radar.
  • Container for sanitary cargo.
  • Agricultural spray module.
  • Multispectral cameras.
 
Zodiac Aerospace has worked in the aeronautics business for over 100 years but the group took until 2006 to establish operations in Mexico. In only 10 years, Zodiac’s operations in the state of Chihuahua have climbed from one to five plants and infrastructure now covers 55,000m2. In the same period, Zodiac has become embedded in the heart of Chihuahua’s aerospace manufacturing.

Zodiac Aerospace Chihuahua

Zodiac Aerospace Chihuahua

Zodiac Aerospace Chihuahua

Zodiac Aerospace Chihuahua







Chihuahua’s site began its operations producing different evacuation systems such as slides. Eventually, the facilities expanded and other group activities were incorporated. In 2015, the corporation Zodiac Aerospace Equipo de Mexico was created and as of today it runs nine different business units.

The Evacuation Systems’ unit comprises the production of several inflatable safety products such as evacuation slides, life rafts, life vests and flotation equipment for helicopters. Zodiac’s Interconnect business unit is in charge of designing and manufacturing components used for protecting and managing wires, either for static or dynamic applications.

Zodiac’s water & waste aero system also has operations in the state and is responsible for manufacturing cabin systems and equipment such as toilets, airstairs and vacuum waste integration systems. Its lighting solutions target the production of technologies for deck light plates and control panels, among other components. The aero electric unit manufactures flight deck equipment and power distribution systems. The seats, seat shells and actuation system divisions can also be found in the Chihuahua site. The inflight innovations business unit focuses on generating entertainment inflight solutions through the RAVE SDU touch-screen.

Zodiac’s operations in the state are not limited to manufacturing. The company has collaborated with local universities that develop courses to suit the engineering needs of the aerospace industry. The company also carries out R&D activities in Mexico, particularly for its seats unit.

Zodiac’s facilities in Chihuahua employ nearly 3,000 people in three of the company’s most profitable business areas. The latest 4,600m2 expansion opened in August 2016 and demonstrates that Chihuahua has become a cornerstone to the group’s industrial capacity.

https://mexicobusiness.news/aerospace/news/zodiac-aerospace-chihuahua
 

Brazil Develops Homemade Hypersonic Rocket​

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ByLachlan Williams
October 9, 2024
Brazil is on the verge of a significant breakthrough in its aerospace industry with the development of the RATO-14X, a rocket designed to transport a hypersonic vehicle into the atmosphere.

This ambitious project, led by Mac Jee and the Brazilian Air Force, is set to revolutionize Brazil’s defense capabilities and technological independence.

The RATO-14X project represents a crucial step toward Brazil’s goal of becoming a major military power by 2030. It aims to achieve full autonomy in the defense sector.

The project includes the construction of a 14-meter tall, 15-ton rocket capable of launching a vehicle to an altitude of 30 kilometers. The rocket will reach speeds exceeding Mach 8.

This project is not just about technology; it’s about Brazil’s future. With the RATO-14X, Brazil aims to launch its own satellites, enhancing its commercial and innovation capabilities.

Brazil Develops Homemade Hypersonic Rocket. (Photo Internet reproduction)
This is a significant step towards achieving technological sovereignty and independence. Finep funds the project with a record-breaking subsidy of R$ 117 ($21) million.

The RATO-14X Project​

The project involves over 500 professionals and is scheduled for launch at the end of 2027. The launch will take place at the Alcântara Space Center in Maranhão.

Mac Jee has also focused on repatriating specialists who have worked abroad, highlighting the value of intellectual capital. The company emphasizes addressing technological challenges to attract and retain top talent.

This project is a cornerstone for Brazil’s future in aerospace technology. The success of the RATO-14X project could boost Brazil’s defense exports and position it as a leading player in the global aerospace industry.

It aligns with Brazil’s strategic defense plan, which emphasizes the importance of technological autonomy and the development of a robust defense industry.

The RATO-14X project is a pivotal initiative that advances Brazil’s technological capabilities. It also enhances the country’s global standing, defense exports, and autonomy.

By investing in indigenous technologies and strategic partnerships, Brazil is positioning itself as a leading nation in aerospace innovation.

The project’s success will have far-reaching implications for Brazil‘s future in aerospace technology, enabling the country to launch its own satellites and enhance its commercial and innovation capabilities.

In short, this project marks a significant step toward Brazil’s goal of becoming a major military power by 2030. It aims to achieve full autonomy in the defense sector.

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View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vFW17LuxCk

 
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Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – April 22, 2025 – EDGE, a leading global advanced technology and defense group, held a demonstration of the capabilities of the HT-100 unmanned helicopter, developed by ANAVIA, at the Army Evaluation Center (CAEx) test range in Restinga da Marambaia, Rio de Janeiro.
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The objective of the event was to showcase the versatility and precision of the HT-100 in the rapid delivery of tactical information for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), in real time, with high performance and reliability. The HT-100 is developed and manufactured by ANAVIA, a Swiss-based EDGE group company specializing in unmanned aerial systems.

 
Marrakesh, Morocco, April 24, 2025 – A high-level delegation from Embraer has concluded an official visit to Morocco to assess the country’s aerospace supply chain. The initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) recently signed between the Government of Morocco and Embraer to explore potential joint projects.
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Embraer has identified significant opportunities for business and industrial collaboration, as both Brazil and the Kingdom of Morocco are committed to deepening cooperation and investment between the countries. These opportunities include commercial aviation, defense, and urban air mobility.

“Morocco has a rapidly growing aerospace industry and we have identified key suppliers with the potential to be integrated into our global supply chain,” said Roberto Chaves, Embraer’s Executive Vice President, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. “We believe there are opportunities to generate mutual benefits, both in the short and long term, through innovation and economic growth in both countries.”

Morocco's aerospace industry has demonstrated strong capabilities in areas such as aerostructures, machining, sheet metal work and composites. Embraer has chosen Morocco as its preferred regional partner to build a robust supply chain program.

The cooperation could also include training programs, capacity building for MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) activities and other areas of potential collaboration such as Research and Technology.

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Estimates for 2025 reiterated: Commercial Aviation deliveries between 77 and 85 aircraft, and Executive Aviation deliveries between 145 and 155 aircraft. Total company revenue between US$7.0 and US$7.5 billion, adjusted EBIT margin between 7.5% and 8.3% and adjusted free cash flow of US$200 million or higher for the year. The company highlights that the results of the first quarter were not affected by the tariffs imposed by the United States (US).

Revenues totaled R$6.4 billion in the 1st quarter – the best first quarter since 2016 – and +44% in the annual comparison (1Q25 x 1Q24).

Adjusted EBIT reached R$359.2 million with a margin of +5.6% in 1Q25 (+0.8% in 1Q24).

Adjusted free cash flow excluding Eve was R$(2.3) billion during 1Q25, driven by the company’s preparation for higher aircraft deliveries in the coming quarters.

The company approved the payment of R$51.4 million in dividends (R$0.07/share) related to 2024.

Embraer issued US$650 million in 10-year bonds at 158 basis points above the US Treasury in 1Q25 and purchased US$522 million in bonds due 2027 and US$150 million in bonds due 2028.

The company extended the duration of its debt to 6.3 years (3.8 years in Q4) following its latest liability management measure, and ended the quarter with a net debt/EBITDA ratio of 0.5x, compared to 1.8x in the same period last year.

Embraer delivered 30 jets in 1Q25, comprising 7 commercial jets (3 E195-E2 and 4 E175-E1) and 23 executive jets (14 light and 9 medium); up 20% from the 25 aircraft delivered in the previous year.

Total backlog reached US$26.4 billion in 1Q25, surpassing the all-time record set in the previous quarter. For more information, see our 1Q25 Backlog & Deliveries.

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Botucatu, São Paulo, March 20, 2025 – Embraer will exhibit the best-selling aircraft in the agricultural aviation market in Brazil, the Ipanema 203, during the Safra Mato Grosso Show, an event that will take place from March 24 to 28 in Lucas de Rio Verde (MT).

“The Mato Grosso region is the largest grain producer in the country, with strategic crops such as soybeans, corn and cotton, important commodities that demand high efficiency and productivity. The ethanol-powered Ipanema 203 is a strong ally in optimizing these results based on the needs of each crop,” says Sany Onofre, leader of Embraer’s Agricultural Aviation.
Equivalent to four ground sprayers spraying at the same time, the ethanol-powered Ipanema 203 can spray more than 200 hectares per hour, delivering a regular application at a constant speed, without crushing the soil or spreading pests by contact, generating an additional 5 to 15 bags per hectare in the field. It is a complete aircraft that combines technology, tradition, high productivity and low operating costs. “The agricultural sector is one of the main markets in the country and we are ready to help our customers and operators boost their businesses”, highlights Sany.

According to the event organizers, more than 150 thousand people are expected to visit this edition, which will feature 525 exhibitors and a runway inside the park
 
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Xmobots CEO, Mr. Giovani Amianti, presented the Nauru 100D, the company's new launch. The Nauru 100D was designed for surveillance missions, operating with advanced intelligence and immediate response. Designed for tactical operations, it offers superior performance in any scenario. With proprietary technology and 100% verticalized development, it redefines battlefield performance.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1NQfNG3Ojg&t=694s
Tokyo, Japan, February 25, 2025 – ANA Holdings Inc. has ordered 15 Embraer E190-E2 jets with options for five more aircraft. The selection of the E190-E2 is part of ANA’s fleet renewal plan. The aircraft’s economics and efficiency will enable the Japanese airline to enhance connectivity throughout the country, while offering more space and comfort for passengers. Deliveries of the E190-E2 jets to ANA are scheduled to begin in 2028.
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“We are honored to have selected the E190-E2 for ANA’s fleet, and we look forward to Embraer’s small narrowbody jet joining ANA’s fleet in 2028,” said Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “The E190-E2 is the quietest and most fuel-efficient aircraft on the market. The size of the jet perfectly complements ANA’s larger narrowbody fleet. The E2’s excellent cabin comfort and spaciousness, with no middle seats, will also please passengers. We are excited to see the aircraft take to the skies of Japan.”
The E-Jets have been operating in Japan since 2009 and are supported by the Embraer team in the country. ANA’s E190-E2 will be the first new-generation E-Jet to operate in Japan. The aircraft’s state-of-the-art interior features a spacious and quiet cabin with a 2x2 configuration, a hallmark of Embraer jets. In addition, larger windows increase the perception of light and space, while individual Passenger Service Units with air vents and reading lights add personalized comfort, ensuring that each passenger enjoys more personal space and space for their luggage in the cabin.

Embraer’s E2 family of aircraft offers the best environmental efficiency, operational performance and passenger comfort. Building on 20 years of operational excellence from the first-generation E-Jets, the E190-E2 features improved aerodynamics, a state-of-the-art wing design and new technologies that deliver a 25% reduction in carbon emissions and fuel use compared to previous-generation E-Jets.

Embraer is committed to developing products, solutions and technologies to contribute to the aviation industry’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The E2 family of jets is certified to fly on blends of up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and has demonstrated the capability to operate on 100% SAF in test flights, further reinforcing Embraer’s commitment to emissions reduction and sustainable aviation, supporting the path to a more sustainable aviation industry in Japan.

Embraer’s E-Jet program is one of the most successful commercial aviation programs in the industry. The E-Jets and E-Jets E2 are operated by more than 80 airlines in 50 countries, with more than 1,800 units delivered.

 
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