The Portuguese Air Force has received the first A-29N Super Tucano aircraft configured to NATO standards, becoming the first country in Europe and worldwide to place this variant into operational service.
The delivery represents a significant milestone in the modernization of Portuguese military aviation, expanding advanced training and light combat capabilities.
Delivery ceremony at OGMA
The official ceremony took place on December 17 at OGMA’s facilities and was attended by Minister of Defense Nuno Melo and the Commander of the Air Force, João Cartaxo Alves. The aircraft delivered is the first of a planned fleet of 12 A-29N Super Tucanos.
Advanced training and close air support
According to the Air Force, the A-29N will be employed primarily in advanced pilot training missions and close air support in low-threat environments. Equipped with avionics and mission systems compatible with NATO standards, the platform establishes Portugal as the first global operator of this specific variant.
Modernization and strategic advantage
General Cartaxo Alves highlighted that the incorporation of the A-29N is a critical step in the force’s modernization process, replacing training platforms that have been in use for nearly four decades. In addition, the new aircraft enhance armed support capabilities for ground troops in joint or multinational operations, providing a strategic advantage and setting a new benchmark among air forces with similar profiles.
Counter-drone missions within the operational scope
Minister Nuno Melo emphasized the operational flexibility of the A-29N, noting that the aircraft is suitable not only for air-to-ground attack missions but also for emerging scenarios such as countering unmanned aerial vehicles. According to the minister, the decision was based on technical assessments conducted by the Air Force.
Production line in Beja
During the ceremony, a letter of intent was signed to establish an A-29N assembly and production line in Beja. The initiative is expected to create skilled jobs and strengthen the national aeronautical industry. Aircraft produced locally may be offered through intergovernmental agreements to meet Portugal’s future needs and demand from other European countries.
Operational base
The Air Force announced that the A-29N Super Tucano will be transferred in the coming days to Air Base No. 11 in Beja, where it will operate with the 101st Squadron, known as “Roncos”.
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Source and images: Portuguese Air Force, Instagram @fap_oficial. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
