Embraer has delivered the first two A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to the Uruguayan Air Force (FAU), as part of a fleet renewal program focused on airspace protection and border control.
Gavião Peixoto (SP), February 18, 2026 – Embraer (NYSE: EMBJ; B3: EMBJ3) announced the delivery of the first two A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to the Uruguayan Air Force (FAU). The aircraft are part of a modernization program aimed at renewing the fleet and expanding the institution’s operational capabilities, with a focus on missions such as airspace protection, patrol, and border surveillance.
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The contract, signed at the end of 2024, also includes mission equipment, integrated logistics services, and a flight simulator.
More than 50 years of partnership
In a statement, Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, said the delivery reinforces a partnership that has spanned more than five decades, dating back to when Uruguay became the first international customer to acquire an aircraft from the Brazilian manufacturer.
“We are honored to deliver the first A-29 Super Tucanos to the Uruguayan Air Force. This milestone strengthens a partnership that has grown for more than 50 years,” the executive said, adding that the aircraft expands FAU’s operational capabilities “in ways never previously possible.”
“A historic day” for the Uruguayan Air Force
For FAU Commander-in-Chief Air General Fernando Colina, the introduction of the A-29 marks an operational and technological shift in the country’s combat fleet.
“Today is a historic day of great relevance for Uruguay and its Air Force,” he said. According to him, the Super Tucano positions Uruguay in the region with an aircraft operated by 22 air forces worldwide, featuring advanced technology and an operational cost considered appropriate. Colina also highlighted that the model will enhance airspace surveillance capabilities and reinforce the country’s commitment to national security and sovereignty.
The Commander of the II Air Brigade, Col. S. S. (Av.) Shandelaio González, stated that the acquisition opens a new technological horizon, with modern onboard systems that expand capabilities and redefine the air power of the Uruguayan Air Force.
Former FAU Commander-in-Chief Luis H. De León emphasized that the incorporation of the new system will “significantly help” strengthen the country’s air defense system and airspace control across the national territory.
A-29: global leader in its category
Embraer states that the A-29 Super Tucano is a global leader in its class, having been selected by 22 air forces and accumulating more than 600,000 flight hours. The aircraft also continues to attract interest from other countries due to its combination of operational capability, efficiency, and flexibility.
The A-29 is a multi-mission platform designed for air forces seeking a proven, reliable, and cost-effective solution. Mission profiles cited by the manufacturer include:
- Advanced pilot training
- Close air support (CAS)
- Air patrol
- Air interdiction
- JTAC (Joint Terminal Attack Controller)
- Armed Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)
- Border surveillance
- Air escort
- Counter-drone operations
Technology, robustness, and low life-cycle cost
According to Embraer, the A-29 is equipped with technology for precise target identification, weapons systems, and a comprehensive communications suite. Performance is enhanced by avionics featuring a human-machine interface (HMI) and a robust airframe capable of operating from unpaved runways, in harsh environments, and with limited infrastructure.
The manufacturer also highlights reduced maintenance requirements, along with high levels of reliability, availability, and structural integrity, resulting in a low life-cycle cost.
Source and images: Embraer. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
