Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

Nine Embraer C-390 Millennium military aircraft ordered by the Netherlands and Austria will be modified by Fokker Services Group (FSG) under an agreement announced by the Brazilian aerospace and defense group on Thursday. The modifications package will prepare the multi-role twinjets for use in tactical transport missions as part of the European countries’ contribution to NATO Special Missions.
These C-390s will be operated by the <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2024-07-23/netherlands-and-austria-take-nine-embraer-c-390s">Dutch and Austrian air forces</a>. Earlier this month, Sweden’s ministry of defense announced the selection of the C-390 as its new military transport aircraft after the country became the latest member of NATO in March. Embraer has not yet announced the modification contractor for this customer or confirmed how many aircraft will be acquired.
The C-390 entered service with Brazil’s air force in 2019 and has since logged more than 15,000 flight hours, with a mission capability rate of 93% and a mission completion rate above 99%. South Korea has also placed orders for the aircraft.
Netherlands-based FSG has extensive experience in modifying and converting military aircraft, including F-16 fighters and NH-90 helicopters. It recently announced that it will jointly operate a new hangar facility with the Royal Netherlands Air Force at Woensdrecht. Earlier this year, the company delivered a Gulfstream G550 that had been converted for special-mission use for an undisclosed customer.

News and issues about aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), covering all segments of the aviation industry; and modifications for aircraft and engines. Subjects include product support of aircraft, engines and avionics, MRO company mergers, acquisitions, announcements and personnel, Airworthiness Directives, Supplemental Type Certificate approvals and other topics.

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