Brazilian multinational aerospace corporation Embraer said on Wednesday it had signed a memorandum of understanding with Colombian Aeronautical Industry Corporation to explore expanded industrial and technical cooperation aimed at strengthening Colombia’s aerospace sector.

The agreement was formalised during the FIDAE in Santiago and envisages potential collaboration across Embraer’s defence and aviation portfolio, including programmes such as the A-29 Super Tucano and the KC-390 Millennium.

Embraer said the MoU builds on an existing relationship with CIAC and could lead to the Colombian firm’s integration into its global production and supply chains. “Our goal is to further strengthen the Colombian aerospace industry and evaluate opportunities to integrate CIAC into Embraer’s global production chains,” said Fabio Caparica, Vice-President of Contracts at Embraer Defense & Security.

CIAC described the agreement as a strategic step to enhance Colombia’s role in international aerospace markets. Colonel Oscar Francisco Zúñiga Martin, the company’s acting president, said the partnership would support knowledge transfer, technical capability development, and deeper participation in global value chains.

Colombia is a significant market for Embraer, with around 50 of its aircraft currently in operation across defence, commercial, and executive aviation segments. These include 24 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft used by the Colombian Aerospace Force.

Founded in 1969, Embraer is one of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, particularly in the segment of commercial jets with up to 150 seats. The company has delivered more than 9,000 aircraft globally and maintains operations across multiple continents.

CIAC, a state-linked enterprise under Colombia’s Ministry of National Defense, has over six decades of experience in aircraft maintenance, aeronautical manufacturing, and the development of manned and unmanned systems.

Industry analysts say the agreement could enhance Colombia’s domestic aerospace capabilities while offering Embraer access to new industrial partnerships in Latin America. Further details on specific projects or timelines were not disclosed.

Source: Press Release