Embraer announced, on Wednesday, April 6, during the 2022 edition of FIDAE (Feria Internacional del Aire y del Espacio), in Chile, that the global fleet of A-29 Super Tucano aircraft has reached the 500,000-hour mark.
With more than 260 units delivered, the aircraft has already been selected by more than 15 air forces around the world, including the United States Air Force (USAF), as well as several Latin American countries such as Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and the Dominican Republic. Republic, in addition to Brazil, the world’s first aircraft operator.
“We are delighted to be able to share this important milestone with the Chilean Air Force, our long-time customer,” said Bosco Costa Jr., Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Defense and Security. “In addition to 500,000 flying hours, the A-29 brings together more than 60,000 hours in combat. In fact, it is the only advanced light attack, reconnaissance and training platform currently in production with combat capabilities proven worldwide.”
Since the arrival of the first prototypes of these aircraft to the Chilean Air Force in 2009, the A-29 Super Tucano has been distinguished by its operational versatility, power and operational costs. The Commander-in-Chief of the Chilean Air Force, General Arturo Merino Nunez, said I thank Embraer for choosing FIDAE to celebrate this important milestone in the history of Super Tucano operations.”
Developed to meet the demanding requirements of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), the A-29 can perform a wide range of missions, including light attack, surveillance, air interception and counterinsurgency.
Robust and versatile, the A-29 has the ability to operate from remote, unpaved runways on advanced operating bases in hostile and poorly supported environments, all combined with low operating costs and high availability (over 90%).
In addition to combat missions, the aircraft is widely used as an advanced trainer. Its ability to simulate combat missions and upload and download flight data has made it a highly effective training platform.
As a multi-role aircraft, the A-29 is flexible enough to provide the Air Force with a single platform for light attack, armed reconnaissance, close air support and advanced training, thereby improving its fleets.
It is equipped with a variety of modern sensors and weapons, including an electro-optical / infrared system with a laser locator, night vision goggles, and secure voice and data communications. Through it all, the A-29 Super Tucano is best in class, combining superior performance with 21st century weaponry, integrated sensors and monitoring systems to create a highly effective air force component.
Other clients include Indonesia, Lebanon and the Philippines. In Africa, the A-29 was selected by Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Angola, and most recently Nigeria.
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