Colombia has added its name to the list of South American countries in talks with Embraer about becoming a partner in the KC-390 tactical airlifter program.
The Colombian Minister of Defence signed a declaration of intent with his Brazilian counterpart Sept. 1 that could lead to participation in the project.
If the deal comes off the, Colombian Air Force (FAC) intends to purchase a fleet of 12 KC-390s.
In a statement, Embraer said Colombia's participation in the scheme could result in the setting up of a factory for machined parts in the country.
Air Marshal Flavio Ulloa, the FAC chief of logistical operations, said that by "being part of the program, we are taking big steps to significantly speed up the development of the country's aeronautics industry through the Colombian Aeronautics Industry Corp."
The FAC already operate Embraer Tucano, Super Tucano and Bandeirante aircraft.
Last week, the Chilean government announced it was also in talks with Brazil over its possible involvement in the KC-390 program. Chile's Air Force could buy six of the tactical airlifters.
The two sides signed a declaration of intent Aug. 24 that could see Chilean aerospace company Empresa Nacional de Aeronautica (ENAER) participate in the program.
The Brazilian Air Force recently committed to purchasing 28 of the twin-jet aircraft, for which the first flight is scheduled for 2014.
Argentina has also indicated it may join the program.
Dassault and Saab, two of the contenders in the Brazilian FX2 fighter competition, have indicated they could participate in the program if they are selected for the combat aircraft deal.
