Portugal to boost light attack and training capabilities with Brazilian Embraer A-29N aircraft delivery in 2025
{loadposition bannertop}
{loadposition sidebarpub}
According to information published by the Paulo Mata X account, on June 16, 2025, the Portuguese Minister of Defense confirmed that Portugal will receive the first five of twelve Embraer A-29N Super Tucano light attack and training aircraft by the end of the year. This acquisition is part of a €200 million investment program aimed at modernizing the Portuguese Air Force, with €75 million earmarked for the domestic defense industry to upgrade the aircraft to NATO standards. The initiative represents a significant enhancement of Portugal’s air combat and pilot training capabilities, bolstering the country’s role within NATO’s operational structure.Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
Portuguese Air Force to enhance light attack and pilot training capabilities with Embraer A29N Super Tucano aircraft to be delivered by end of 2025 under a €200 million defense modernization program. (Picture source: Wikimedia)
The contract for the twelve A-29N aircraft was officially signed on December 16, 2024, between the Portuguese Ministry of National Defense and Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. The agreement includes not only the delivery of aircraft but also a comprehensive logistics support package and a high-fidelity flight simulator. The procurement falls under the framework of Portugal’s Military Programming Law (Lei de Programação Militar, LPM), which was revised in August 2023 to include funding for the “Close Air Support” capability development initiative. This framework allocates €180.5 million specifically for the project, with the balance directed to associated support infrastructure and industrial participation by Portuguese firms.
Manufactured by the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer, the A-29 Super Tucano is a proven turboprop aircraft that serves in over 15 air forces worldwide. The “A-29N” variant is specifically tailored for NATO users, incorporating encrypted communications, NATO-standard Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems, secure data links, and enhanced avionics suites. The aircraft is renowned for its durability, operability from austere runways, and cost-effective performance in close air support, reconnaissance, and counterinsurgency missions.
Technically, the A-29N is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68C engine delivering 1,600 shp, allowing it to reach speeds up to 590 km/h and operate at service ceilings over 35,000 feet. It is equipped with a robust glass cockpit, Hands-On Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) controls, night vision compatibility, and mission-specific equipment including EO/IR sensors and precision-guided munitions. The aircraft supports up to 1,500 kg of external ordnance across five hardpoints, making it a versatile platform for both training and combat roles.
Among the international operators of the A-29 are the United States Air Force, which procured it for the Afghan Air Force and its own light attack experimentation programs, as well as Colombia, Nigeria, Indonesia, and the Philippines. These users have praised its effectiveness in low-intensity conflict scenarios, ruggedness in tropical and desert environments, and low maintenance requirements.
The Portuguese Air Force’s decision to integrate the A-29N aligns with a broader strategic modernization plan. Recent years have seen increased investment in fleet renewal, including the acquisition of KC-390 transport aircraft, upgrades to F-16 Fighting Falcons, and interest in future fighter platforms under NATO capability development programs. The A-29N will serve as a bridge between basic trainer aircraft and high-performance jet fighters, significantly enhancing training throughput while enabling light attack and ISR missions in both national and expeditionary contexts.
Delivery of the first aircraft in 2025 and full fleet completion by 2026 marks a critical step in reinforcing the Portuguese Air Force’s agility, training efficiency, and combat readiness in line with evolving NATO and EU defense objectives.
{loadposition bannertop}
{loadposition sidebarpub}
According to information published by the Paulo Mata X account, on June 16, 2025, the Portuguese Minister of Defense confirmed that Portugal will receive the first five of twelve Embraer A-29N Super Tucano light attack and training aircraft by the end of the year. This acquisition is part of a €200 million investment program aimed at modernizing the Portuguese Air Force, with €75 million earmarked for the domestic defense industry to upgrade the aircraft to NATO standards. The initiative represents a significant enhancement of Portugal’s air combat and pilot training capabilities, bolstering the country’s role within NATO’s operational structure.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
Portuguese Air Force to enhance light attack and pilot training capabilities with Embraer A29N Super Tucano aircraft to be delivered by end of 2025 under a €200 million defense modernization program. (Picture source: Wikimedia)
The contract for the twelve A-29N aircraft was officially signed on December 16, 2024, between the Portuguese Ministry of National Defense and Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. The agreement includes not only the delivery of aircraft but also a comprehensive logistics support package and a high-fidelity flight simulator. The procurement falls under the framework of Portugal’s Military Programming Law (Lei de Programação Militar, LPM), which was revised in August 2023 to include funding for the “Close Air Support” capability development initiative. This framework allocates €180.5 million specifically for the project, with the balance directed to associated support infrastructure and industrial participation by Portuguese firms.
Manufactured by the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer, the A-29 Super Tucano is a proven turboprop aircraft that serves in over 15 air forces worldwide. The “A-29N” variant is specifically tailored for NATO users, incorporating encrypted communications, NATO-standard Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems, secure data links, and enhanced avionics suites. The aircraft is renowned for its durability, operability from austere runways, and cost-effective performance in close air support, reconnaissance, and counterinsurgency missions.
Technically, the A-29N is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68C engine delivering 1,600 shp, allowing it to reach speeds up to 590 km/h and operate at service ceilings over 35,000 feet. It is equipped with a robust glass cockpit, Hands-On Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) controls, night vision compatibility, and mission-specific equipment including EO/IR sensors and precision-guided munitions. The aircraft supports up to 1,500 kg of external ordnance across five hardpoints, making it a versatile platform for both training and combat roles.
Among the international operators of the A-29 are the United States Air Force, which procured it for the Afghan Air Force and its own light attack experimentation programs, as well as Colombia, Nigeria, Indonesia, and the Philippines. These users have praised its effectiveness in low-intensity conflict scenarios, ruggedness in tropical and desert environments, and low maintenance requirements.
The Portuguese Air Force’s decision to integrate the A-29N aligns with a broader strategic modernization plan. Recent years have seen increased investment in fleet renewal, including the acquisition of KC-390 transport aircraft, upgrades to F-16 Fighting Falcons, and interest in future fighter platforms under NATO capability development programs. The A-29N will serve as a bridge between basic trainer aircraft and high-performance jet fighters, significantly enhancing training throughput while enabling light attack and ISR missions in both national and expeditionary contexts.
Delivery of the first aircraft in 2025 and full fleet completion by 2026 marks a critical step in reinforcing the Portuguese Air Force’s agility, training efficiency, and combat readiness in line with evolving NATO and EU defense objectives.
