Portugal to launch customer for Embraer A-29N Super Tucano
In a significant step toward bolstering its defence capabilities, Portugal has become the first European nation to acquire Embraer’s latest A-29N Super Tucano variant. The Portuguese Ministry of National Defence officially signed a contract with Embraer to purchase 12 of these versatile light attack and advanced trainer aircraft.
In a press statement, Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer says that Portugal is the first nation to operate the A-29N Super Tucano, featuring advanced avionics, NATO-specific communications, and undisclosed capabilities tailored to its defence needs.
It adds that the A-29 Super Tucano, offers a proven, efficient, and cost-effective solution for Air Forces, supporting a wide range of missions including Advanced Pilot Training, CAS, Air Patrol, Air Interdiction, JTAC Training, Armed ISR, Border Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Air Escort.
The statement adds that with over 260 orders and 570,000 flight hours, including 60,000 in combat, A-29 Super Tucano is the most cost-effective and widely adopted aircraft in its category.
Embraer says that the aircraft is a highly effective multi-mission aircraft, featuring advanced technology for precise targeting, robust avionics, and a durable airframe capable of operating from austere environments with low maintenance and lifecycle costs.
“We would like to thank the Portuguese Ministry of National Defence and Air Force for the trust they place in Embraer solutions. This contract gives us the opportunity to contribute to the modernisation of the Portuguese Air Force and to further deepen our strong partnership, paving the way for additional industrial cooperation with the local defence industry,” says Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO, Embraer Defence & Security.