Portugal to operate first A29N Super Tucano light attack aircraft in Europe by the end of 2025
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As reported by Janes on April 28, 2025, Portugal is scheduled to receive its first A-29N Super Tucano aircraft by the end of 2025, following the December 16, 2024, contract signed with Embraer for twelve aircraft valued at approximately €200 million. This acquisition makes Portugal the launch customer for the NATO-standard variant of the Super Tucano, which is intended to fulfill missions including advanced pilot training, close air support (CAS), intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) operations. The aircraft will be integrated into the 103rd Squadron “Caracóis” of the Portuguese Air Force (FAP), and is expected to address capability gaps left by the retirement of the Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet fleet in January 2018. Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
Portugal is set to become the first European country to operate the A-29N Super Tucano light attack aircraft, with final deliveries projected between 2027 and 2028. (Picture source: Embraer)
Portugal is set to become the first European country to operate the A-29N Super Tucano light attack aircraft. According to Embraer Defense & Security COO Walter Pinto Junior, production of Portugal’s aircraft is already underway. Delivery of the full fleet is scheduled to occur over a two- to three-year period, with final deliveries projected between 2027 and 2028. The aircraft will be partially assembled by OGMA in Portugal, a subsidiary of Embraer. The procurement includes not only the twelve aircraft but also a flight simulator, a logistics support package, and related ground infrastructure, all of which are covered under Portugal’s Military Programming Law (MPL).
The law was revised on August 17, 2023, and allocates €180.5 million for the “Close Air Support” project. This initiative is part of the 2022–2034 Military Strategic Vision, which identified the need for fixed-wing platforms capable of operating in permissive and semi-permissive environments, including potential deployments in Africa under missions such as the United Nations MINUSCA in the Central African Republic. During the April 2024 workshop hosted by idD Portugal Defence, and reiterated at AED Days 2024, FAP leadership emphasized the requirement for light attack aircraft to support both operational missions and pilot training.
The A-29N variant was introduced in April 2023 at the LAAD Defence & Security exhibition. It is based on the Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano, with modifications to meet NATO operational standards. These include a NATO datalink, single-pilot operation capability, updated communications systems, and a training suite incorporating virtual, augmented, and mixed reality. Additional mission-specific equipment includes range and endurance enhancements, an electro-optical surveillance system, internal M3P 12.7×99 mm machine guns, compatibility with precision weapons and rocket pods, and a full self-protection suite. The avionics suite comprises NATO-standard V/UHF radios, a satellite communications terminal, Digitally Aided Close Air Support (DACAS) module, Variable Message Format (VMF) system, Link 16 datalink, video downlink compatible with ROVER systems, Mod 5 IFF transponder, and encrypted military GPS.
Eight operators of the A-29 are located in Latin America: Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Panama, Paraguay, and Uruguay. (Picture source: Chilean Air Force)
The cockpit is designed to reduce pilot workload and includes HOTAS (hands-on throttle-and-stick) controls, a wide-area display, and a human-machine interface optimized for situational awareness. The aircraft has a maximum speed of 320 knots, a service ceiling of 35,000 feet, and an endurance of 3.4 hours with internal fuel, extended to 5.2 hours with external tanks. It can take off within 900 meters and land within 860 meters. The reinforced airframe allows operation from unprepared runways and withstands load factors of +7/-3.5 Gs. The platform includes five external hardpoints and an integrated store management system, allowing over 160 weapon configurations. Protection measures include automated countermeasures, radar and missile warning systems, and zero-zero ejection seats.
A memorandum of understanding signed in April 2023 between Embraer and four Portuguese companies—OGMA, CEiiA, Empordef, and GMV—supports technology development and industrial participation. OGMA, in which Embraer holds a majority share, will contribute to both production and maintenance. Embraer has an existing industrial presence in Portugal through OGMA, which already supports the KC-390 Millennium aircraft. The integration of the A-29N into NATO-member Portugal is expected to improve interoperability within the alliance and serve as a potential reference for future sales in Europe.
The announcement of Portugal’s procurement coincides with recent developments involving the A-29 platform in Latin America. In November 2024, Paraguay signed a contract for six A-29s, valued at approximately R$600 million (US$96.6 million) and financed by Brazil’s National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES). The first two aircraft were observed at Embraer’s Gavião Peixoto facility in April 2025, with all deliveries expected by June 2025. The aircraft, serials FAP 1101 to FAP 1106, will be based at Ñú Guasú Air Base under Air Brigade No. 1 Aerotactical Group. The aircraft configuration includes a digital cockpit with three multifunction displays, MX-15 electro-optical system, compatibility with night vision goggles, laser-guided bomb capability, and external armor. The armament package includes 12 LAU-32 rocket launchers, each carrying seven 70 mm rockets, and general-purpose bombs. Logistical support includes maintenance, spare parts, mission planning stations, and pilot training by Embraer.
In April 2025, Panama finalized the purchase of four A-29 Super Tucanos, which represents the first acquisition of fixed-wing aircraft with combat capabilities for the country. (Picture source: Brazilian Air Force)
Paraguay will become the eighth operator of the A-29 in Latin America, joining Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Panama, and Uruguay. However, diplomatic tensions between Paraguay and Brazil have developed since the contract was signed, with Paraguay investigating a suspected cyberattack allegedly conducted by Brazil’s intelligence service, ABIN. President Santiago Peña has raised the possibility of contract cancellation if espionage allegations are confirmed. As a result, Paraguay suspended negotiations on the renewal of Anexo C of the Itaipu Treaty. Embraer has reportedly sought assistance from Brazilian government officials to avoid contract termination.
In April 2025, Panama finalized the purchase of four A-29 Super Tucanos and two Airbus C-295 tactical transport aircraft, with a total acquisition cost of US$187 million—US$78 million for the A-29s and US$109 million for the C-295s. This represents the first acquisition of fixed-wing aircraft with combat capabilities for Panama. Operated by the National Air and Naval Service (SENAN), the aircraft will be used for surveillance, counter-narcotics, border patrol, pilot training, and special operations. Panama has emphasized that SENAN will retain its civil security agency status and that the aircraft are not intended for offensive roles. The aircraft will replace a fleet of 14 aging aircraft incurring high maintenance costs and will support aerial patrol missions historically limited by Panama’s lack of combat-capable air assets.
The procurement follows heightened national security concerns and political tensions in December 2024, when U.S. President Donald Trump raised the issue of Panama Canal control, prompting a response from the Panamanian government reaffirming sovereignty. The Super Tucanos, configured for close air support, can be fitted with various munitions including Giat NC621 20 mm cannon pods and MAA-1 Piranha air-to-air missiles. Panama’s fleet will operate alongside existing aircraft including the Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, Piper PA-34 Seneca, C-212 Aviocar, DHC-6 Twin Otter, and MD and Bell helicopters. The two C-295s will restore Panama’s medium-lift capability, with each aircraft capable of carrying over 9,000 kg or more than 70 passengers.
Powered by a 1,600 shp Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68C engine, the A-29 Super Tucano has a maximum takeoff weight of 5,400 kg and can carry up to 1,550 kg of external payload. (Picture source: Brazilian Air Force)
In Brazil, the Air Force announced a modernization program for 68 A-29 Super Tucanos to the A-29M standard beginning in 2025. The fleet is operated by four squadrons: Scorpio, Flecha, Grifo, and Joker. The Joker squadron is responsible for advanced training at Natal Air Base. The A-29M upgrade includes wide-area cockpit displays, electro-optical sensors, integration with the BR-2 data link for interoperability with Gripen fighters, E-99 radar aircraft, and ground stations. Additional modifications include synthetic training systems simulating air and ground threats, laser-guided weapon integration, reinforced armor, and improved self-protection systems. This upgrade supports Brazil’s broader acquisition of the Gripen NG and is intended to extend the A-29’s service life by 15 years.
The A-29 Super Tucano is a single-engine turboprop aircraft designed for light attack, reconnaissance, and advanced training. Powered by a 1,600 shp Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68C engine, it has a maximum takeoff weight of 5,400 kg and can carry up to 1,550 kg of external payload. Its avionics include HUD, HOTAS, INS/GPS navigation, and optional radar/missile warning receivers. With over 260 aircraft produced, it is used by over 15 air forces and has accumulated over 570,000 flight hours. The aircraft has been employed in operations including border surveillance in Brazil, counter-insurgency strikes in Colombia, and missions under U.S. programs such as Light Air Support.
Portugal’s A-29N acquisition situates the country among a growing number of states selecting the Super Tucano platform for multi-role operations in low-threat environments. The selection is based on operational requirements, existing industrial ties with Embraer, and the aircraft’s compatibility with NATO missions. This acquisition also reinforces Portugal’s contribution to international security operations while fostering domestic defense industrial participation.
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As reported by Janes on April 28, 2025, Portugal is scheduled to receive its first A-29N Super Tucano aircraft by the end of 2025, following the December 16, 2024, contract signed with Embraer for twelve aircraft valued at approximately €200 million. This acquisition makes Portugal the launch customer for the NATO-standard variant of the Super Tucano, which is intended to fulfill missions including advanced pilot training, close air support (CAS), intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) operations. The aircraft will be integrated into the 103rd Squadron “Caracóis” of the Portuguese Air Force (FAP), and is expected to address capability gaps left by the retirement of the Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet fleet in January 2018.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
Portugal is set to become the first European country to operate the A-29N Super Tucano light attack aircraft, with final deliveries projected between 2027 and 2028. (Picture source: Embraer)
Portugal is set to become the first European country to operate the A-29N Super Tucano light attack aircraft. According to Embraer Defense & Security COO Walter Pinto Junior, production of Portugal’s aircraft is already underway. Delivery of the full fleet is scheduled to occur over a two- to three-year period, with final deliveries projected between 2027 and 2028. The aircraft will be partially assembled by OGMA in Portugal, a subsidiary of Embraer. The procurement includes not only the twelve aircraft but also a flight simulator, a logistics support package, and related ground infrastructure, all of which are covered under Portugal’s Military Programming Law (MPL).
The law was revised on August 17, 2023, and allocates €180.5 million for the “Close Air Support” project. This initiative is part of the 2022–2034 Military Strategic Vision, which identified the need for fixed-wing platforms capable of operating in permissive and semi-permissive environments, including potential deployments in Africa under missions such as the United Nations MINUSCA in the Central African Republic. During the April 2024 workshop hosted by idD Portugal Defence, and reiterated at AED Days 2024, FAP leadership emphasized the requirement for light attack aircraft to support both operational missions and pilot training.
The A-29N variant was introduced in April 2023 at the LAAD Defence & Security exhibition. It is based on the Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano, with modifications to meet NATO operational standards. These include a NATO datalink, single-pilot operation capability, updated communications systems, and a training suite incorporating virtual, augmented, and mixed reality. Additional mission-specific equipment includes range and endurance enhancements, an electro-optical surveillance system, internal M3P 12.7×99 mm machine guns, compatibility with precision weapons and rocket pods, and a full self-protection suite. The avionics suite comprises NATO-standard V/UHF radios, a satellite communications terminal, Digitally Aided Close Air Support (DACAS) module, Variable Message Format (VMF) system, Link 16 datalink, video downlink compatible with ROVER systems, Mod 5 IFF transponder, and encrypted military GPS.
Eight operators of the A-29 are located in Latin America: Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Panama, Paraguay, and Uruguay. (Picture source: Chilean Air Force)
The cockpit is designed to reduce pilot workload and includes HOTAS (hands-on throttle-and-stick) controls, a wide-area display, and a human-machine interface optimized for situational awareness. The aircraft has a maximum speed of 320 knots, a service ceiling of 35,000 feet, and an endurance of 3.4 hours with internal fuel, extended to 5.2 hours with external tanks. It can take off within 900 meters and land within 860 meters. The reinforced airframe allows operation from unprepared runways and withstands load factors of +7/-3.5 Gs. The platform includes five external hardpoints and an integrated store management system, allowing over 160 weapon configurations. Protection measures include automated countermeasures, radar and missile warning systems, and zero-zero ejection seats.
A memorandum of understanding signed in April 2023 between Embraer and four Portuguese companies—OGMA, CEiiA, Empordef, and GMV—supports technology development and industrial participation. OGMA, in which Embraer holds a majority share, will contribute to both production and maintenance. Embraer has an existing industrial presence in Portugal through OGMA, which already supports the KC-390 Millennium aircraft. The integration of the A-29N into NATO-member Portugal is expected to improve interoperability within the alliance and serve as a potential reference for future sales in Europe.
The announcement of Portugal’s procurement coincides with recent developments involving the A-29 platform in Latin America. In November 2024, Paraguay signed a contract for six A-29s, valued at approximately R$600 million (US$96.6 million) and financed by Brazil’s National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES). The first two aircraft were observed at Embraer’s Gavião Peixoto facility in April 2025, with all deliveries expected by June 2025. The aircraft, serials FAP 1101 to FAP 1106, will be based at Ñú Guasú Air Base under Air Brigade No. 1 Aerotactical Group. The aircraft configuration includes a digital cockpit with three multifunction displays, MX-15 electro-optical system, compatibility with night vision goggles, laser-guided bomb capability, and external armor. The armament package includes 12 LAU-32 rocket launchers, each carrying seven 70 mm rockets, and general-purpose bombs. Logistical support includes maintenance, spare parts, mission planning stations, and pilot training by Embraer.
In April 2025, Panama finalized the purchase of four A-29 Super Tucanos, which represents the first acquisition of fixed-wing aircraft with combat capabilities for the country. (Picture source: Brazilian Air Force)
Paraguay will become the eighth operator of the A-29 in Latin America, joining Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Panama, and Uruguay. However, diplomatic tensions between Paraguay and Brazil have developed since the contract was signed, with Paraguay investigating a suspected cyberattack allegedly conducted by Brazil’s intelligence service, ABIN. President Santiago Peña has raised the possibility of contract cancellation if espionage allegations are confirmed. As a result, Paraguay suspended negotiations on the renewal of Anexo C of the Itaipu Treaty. Embraer has reportedly sought assistance from Brazilian government officials to avoid contract termination.
In April 2025, Panama finalized the purchase of four A-29 Super Tucanos and two Airbus C-295 tactical transport aircraft, with a total acquisition cost of US$187 million—US$78 million for the A-29s and US$109 million for the C-295s. This represents the first acquisition of fixed-wing aircraft with combat capabilities for Panama. Operated by the National Air and Naval Service (SENAN), the aircraft will be used for surveillance, counter-narcotics, border patrol, pilot training, and special operations. Panama has emphasized that SENAN will retain its civil security agency status and that the aircraft are not intended for offensive roles. The aircraft will replace a fleet of 14 aging aircraft incurring high maintenance costs and will support aerial patrol missions historically limited by Panama’s lack of combat-capable air assets.
The procurement follows heightened national security concerns and political tensions in December 2024, when U.S. President Donald Trump raised the issue of Panama Canal control, prompting a response from the Panamanian government reaffirming sovereignty. The Super Tucanos, configured for close air support, can be fitted with various munitions including Giat NC621 20 mm cannon pods and MAA-1 Piranha air-to-air missiles. Panama’s fleet will operate alongside existing aircraft including the Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, Piper PA-34 Seneca, C-212 Aviocar, DHC-6 Twin Otter, and MD and Bell helicopters. The two C-295s will restore Panama’s medium-lift capability, with each aircraft capable of carrying over 9,000 kg or more than 70 passengers.
Powered by a 1,600 shp Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68C engine, the A-29 Super Tucano has a maximum takeoff weight of 5,400 kg and can carry up to 1,550 kg of external payload. (Picture source: Brazilian Air Force)
In Brazil, the Air Force announced a modernization program for 68 A-29 Super Tucanos to the A-29M standard beginning in 2025. The fleet is operated by four squadrons: Scorpio, Flecha, Grifo, and Joker. The Joker squadron is responsible for advanced training at Natal Air Base. The A-29M upgrade includes wide-area cockpit displays, electro-optical sensors, integration with the BR-2 data link for interoperability with Gripen fighters, E-99 radar aircraft, and ground stations. Additional modifications include synthetic training systems simulating air and ground threats, laser-guided weapon integration, reinforced armor, and improved self-protection systems. This upgrade supports Brazil’s broader acquisition of the Gripen NG and is intended to extend the A-29’s service life by 15 years.
The A-29 Super Tucano is a single-engine turboprop aircraft designed for light attack, reconnaissance, and advanced training. Powered by a 1,600 shp Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68C engine, it has a maximum takeoff weight of 5,400 kg and can carry up to 1,550 kg of external payload. Its avionics include HUD, HOTAS, INS/GPS navigation, and optional radar/missile warning receivers. With over 260 aircraft produced, it is used by over 15 air forces and has accumulated over 570,000 flight hours. The aircraft has been employed in operations including border surveillance in Brazil, counter-insurgency strikes in Colombia, and missions under U.S. programs such as Light Air Support.
Portugal’s A-29N acquisition situates the country among a growing number of states selecting the Super Tucano platform for multi-role operations in low-threat environments. The selection is based on operational requirements, existing industrial ties with Embraer, and the aircraft’s compatibility with NATO missions. This acquisition also reinforces Portugal’s contribution to international security operations while fostering domestic defense industrial participation.
