The Philippine Air Force has been confirmed as the customer behind a previously undisclosed order of six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, as announced by Embraer on February 3 during the Singapore Airshow.
With the new contract, the Philippine A-29 Super Tucano fleet will total 12 aircraft, considering the previous acquisition of six units. According to Embraer, the additional order aims to expand the air force’s operational capabilities in missions such as close air support, light attack, surveillance, aerial interception, and counterinsurgency operations.
The Brazilian manufacturer highlighted that the A-29 was selected to meet ongoing operational requirements in complex internal security environments, where factors such as persistent presence, low operating costs, and precise weapons employment are considered essential. The contract value and delivery schedule were not disclosed.
The A-29 Super Tucano is a light attack and advanced training turboprop aircraft, widely adopted by air forces seeking a relatively low-cost platform for irregular warfare missions, border surveillance, and internal security. The model features a reinforced structure, armored protection, and an integrated avionics suite designed for operations in contested environments. Depending on the mission profile, it can carry machine guns, rockets, and precision-guided munitions.
In the case of the Philippines, the new aircraft are expected to strengthen existing units responsible for internal security and maritime surveillance missions. The Philippine Air Force uses the Super Tucano as one of its main counterinsurgency platforms, especially in remote areas with limited infrastructure, where jet aircraft are less suitable. The turboprop design allows operations from short or unprepared runways while maintaining long loiter times over the operational area.
Embraer also stated that the fleet expansion will help improve aircraft availability and operational tempo, while maintaining standardization in training, logistics, and maintenance. This commonality reduces lifecycle costs and simplifies support, a factor that has driven A-29 adoption in different regions.
The Philippines joins a growing group of Asia-Pacific countries operating the Super Tucano, reflecting a regional demand for light attack aircraft capable of performing both kinetic missions and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance tasks.
Outside the region, the A-29 is also in service in countries across Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and other parts of Asia, with Embraer presenting it as a mature platform with a consolidated operational record and international training and logistics support.
Source and images: Embraer. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
