Enhancing Dutch Air Mobility: Rheinmetall's Advanced C-390 Flight Simulators for the Royal Netherlands Air Force

In a significant move to bolster its air mobility capabilities, the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) has contracted Rheinmetall, in collaboration with Embraer, to supply state-of-the-art flight simulators for the C-390 Millennium transport aircraft. This initiative aligns with the Netherlands' recent decision to procure five C-390 aircraft, aiming to replace the aging C-130H Hercules fleet that has been in service since the 1990s.

Comprehensive Training Suite

The training package encompasses several advanced components designed to provide thorough and realistic training experiences:

• Full Flight Simulator (FFS): Developed in partnership with Embraer, this simulator meets the Level D standard, the pinnacle of flight simulation fidelity. It allows aircrew to train under both standard and emergency scenarios, supporting military mission rehearsals and simulating over 350 potential aircraft malfunctions.

• Cargo Handling Station Trainer (CHST): Created alongside Rheinmetall, the CHST is tailored for flight crews, loadmasters, and ground personnel. It utilizes cutting-edge visual display technology to offer both an internal view of the cargo compartment and an external perspective of the aircraft, facilitating comprehensive cargo handling training.

• Computer-Based Trainer (CBT): Developed with Portuguese company Empordef Tecnologias de Informação (ETI), the CBT provides theoretical instruction for pilots, loadmasters, additional crew members, and maintenance personnel. It operates through a Learning Management System compatible with SCORM technology, ensuring a flexible and efficient learning process.

Strategic Significance

The acquisition of these training devices is a pivotal step in the RNLAF's modernization efforts. By integrating advanced simulation technologies, the Dutch military aims to enhance the preparedness and proficiency of its personnel, ensuring seamless operation of the new C-390 fleet.

The C-390 Millennium, with a maximum payload of 26 tons and a top speed of 470 knots, stands as a leader in its class. Its robust design, featuring powerful engines, a spacious cargo hold, and durable landing gear, enables it to perform a wide array of missions, from humanitarian support to special operations and disaster response.

The current global fleet of C-390s has accumulated over 15,000 flight hours, maintaining a 93% mission capability rate and over 99% mission completion rate, underscoring its reliability and operational efficiency.

With the increasing number of European C-390 customers, including Portugal, Hungary, Austria, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and South Korea, Embraer and Rheinmetall are exploring the establishment of a dedicated C-390 training center in Europe. Currently, C-390 crew training is conducted at an Embraer facility in São Paulo, Brazil. A European training center would enhance accessibility and support for existing and future C-390 operators in the region.

The delivery of the training suite to the Netherlands is anticipated by the end of 2026, with full operational capability expected the same year. This development marks Rheinmetall's third major order for C-390 simulators worldwide and its second in Europe, highlighting the growing adoption of the C-390 platform and its associated training solutions.

As the RNLAF prepares to integrate the C-390 Millennium into its fleet, the advanced training solutions provided by Rheinmetall and Embraer will play a crucial role in ensuring that Dutch aircrews are well-equipped to operate the new aircraft effectively and safely.