Tests confirm in-flight refueling between KC-390 and Gripen, expanding the Brazilian Air Force’s operational power.
Gavião Peixoto, Brazil – November 14, 2025 – Embraer and Saab, in cooperation with the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), have successfully completed the certification flight-test campaign for the in-flight refueling of the F-39E Gripen fighter by the KC-390 Millennium multimission airlifter. The achievement represents a milestone for the aerospace industry and reinforces the interoperability between two of FAB’s most important strategic assets.
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Conducted at Embraer’s facilities in Gavião Peixoto (SP), where the Gripen Flight Test Center operates, the campaign was coordinated by the Aeronautics and Space Institute (DCTA). Engineers and test pilots from Embraer, Saab and FAB evaluated multiple flight configurations, speed ranges and altitudes. The results confirmed the precision of the operations and high stability during aerial refueling.
The advanced fly-by-wire systems of both the KC-390 and Gripen E directly contributed to the campaign’s successful performance, with the KC-390 providing a favorable aerodynamic wake and the fighter jet demonstrating exemplary responsiveness in all maneuvers.
Two main objectives
The campaign had two distinct and essential goals:
- Qualification of the F-39E Gripen as a receiver aircraft — a crucial step to validate the fighter’s performance, stability and structural integrity during refueling operations.
- Verification of full compatibility between KC-390 and Gripen E — including operations across the entire flight envelope of the airlifter, as well as high-speed refueling in both daytime and nighttime conditions.
The success strengthens the operational integration of the two platforms, expands their potential in the international market and confirms Brazil’s capability to conduct high-complexity tests with domestically developed technology.
Next steps in the certification process
With the tests completed, the Swedish Military Aviation Authority (SE-MAA) will begin analyzing the verification data for the Gripen E’s refueling capability. Next, the Industrial Development and Coordination Institute (IFI) of the FAB will continue the certification process in Brazil.
Both institutions are responsible for reviewing the technical results and ensuring that the KC-390 and Gripen meet the most rigorous international standards of safety and performance.
Operation Samaúma
The campaign, named Operation Samaúma by the FAB, mobilized around 40 professionals and places Brazil among the few countries in the world capable of developing, testing and validating aerial refueling systems with its own technology. The accomplishment strengthens not only the national defense industry, but also the international presence of Embraer and Saab in the military sector.
Source and images: Embraer | FAB. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
