Image: from José Correia Guedes X @cpt340
OPEN CHRONICLE | “The Truth in Every Detail”
By Open Chronicle Staff with Agencies
BEJA — For the first time in the history of the Portuguese Air Force (FAP), a strategic mission has successfully linked Maputo, Mozambique, to Beja, Portugal, in under 16 hours. The feat, achieved by the new KC-390 Millennium aircraft, marks a “new era” in the nation’s military airlift and strategic projection capabilities.
The intercontinental journey, spanning more than 5,600 nautical miles (approximately 10,300 kilometers), began in the early hours of February 23. Carrying over six tons of cargo, the aircraft completed the trek in a record-breaking 15 hours and 25 minutes, including technical refueling stops in São Tomé and Príncipe and Cape Verde.
A Technological Leap for the “Rhinos”
The mission was executed by the 506 Squadron — “Rinocerontes” (Rhinoceros), based at Air Base No. 11 in Beja. The squadron, which operates under the motto “Só pode o que impossível parecia” (Only he can do what seemed impossible), demonstrated the high level of professionalism and technical proficiency required for long-range logistics.
The KC-390, which entered Portuguese service in 2023, has rapidly become the backbone of the FAP’s transport wing. A versatile, twin-engine multi-mission aircraft, it is designed for:
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Strategic Transport: Moving up to 26 tons of cargo or 80 passengers.
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Medical Support: Configurable for up to 74 stretchers for medical evacuations (MEDEVAC).
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Specialized Roles: Aerial refueling, search and rescue, and humanitarian aid missions.
Strengthening NATO Ties
The success of this mission highlights Portugal’s ability to provide independent, long-range logistical support to its allies and international partners. The KC-390’s intercontinental reach and NATO-standard integration ensure that Portugal remains a key player in global military operations and humanitarian efforts.
As the FAP continues to integrate more units of the KC-390 fleet, missions like the Maputo–Beja flight serve as concrete proof of concept for a modernized force capable of reaching across the globe at a moment’s notice.