Operating under the name ATEC, this unit will enhance the company’s capabilities in advanced aerospace and defense technologies while reinforcing Portugal’s role as Embraer’s strategic hub for Europe and beyond.

The move is the latest in a series of investments that underline the country’s central place in Embraer’s global operations. Since first establishing a presence in Portugal, the Brazilian aerospace giant has steadily expanded its footprint, building both manufacturing capacity and specialized engineering resources. Portugal’s geographical position, skilled workforce, and integration within NATO and the European Union have made it a natural base for serving not only European markets but also broader international operations.

The addition of ATEC’s specialized operations follows closely on the heels of a recent defense-focused investment that has already created dozens of highly qualified jobs. Together, these projects reflect Embraer’s strategy of deepening its technological capabilities in Portugal while aligning its local operations with global aerospace and defense priorities.

In parallel with this new unit, Embraer is actively developing plans to further expand its manufacturing and engineering presence. The company is evaluating the construction of a new facility in Portugal dedicated to the assembly of a next-generation aircraft, a move that would mark another significant milestone in its European growth strategy. While details of the potential factory are still under consideration, concrete steps are already being taken in Évora, where Embraer will create a new engineering and technology center. This facility is expected to recruit 20 engineers, further strengthening the region’s role as a center of excellence for advanced aerostructures and aerospace innovation.

Over the years, Portugal has become home to some of Embraer’s most advanced operations outside Brazil. The company’s Évora plants are recognized for their cutting-edge composite materials production and precision metal structures, supplying aircraft programs across the globe. The expansion into specialized defense systems through ATEC marks a diversification of Embraer’s Portuguese portfolio, integrating new capabilities into its already significant industrial base in the country.

With this latest investment, Embraer is not only reinforcing its operational footprint but also reaffirming Portugal’s place in the global aerospace value chain. As the company continues to execute its investment strategy, Portugal stands to benefit from the creation of skilled jobs, the transfer of high-value technologies, and a stronger position in both the European and NATO defense sectors.

Author

Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.

Paulo Lopes