Brazilian aircraft adds anti-drone mission to its operational portfolio
Embraer announced on Tuesday (11), in São José dos Campos, that the A-29 Super Tucano will expand its mission portfolio to include counter-drone operations. The new capability will be offered to both current and future operators, reinforcing the turboprop’s role as a light and versatile attack platform in modern warfare scenarios.
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The solution proposed by Embraer builds on existing systems and sensors, integrating new features such as dedicated datalinks for receiving initial target coordinates and tracking via electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors. The system enables laser designation and the use of guided rockets and .50-caliber machine guns mounted on the wings to neutralize unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
“The ideal tool to combat drones”
Embraer Defense & Security President and CEO, Bosco da Costa Junior, highlighted that the development addresses the evolution of recent conflicts:
“We continue to expand the A-29’s capabilities to meet the latest challenges faced by many nations. Current conflicts have shown the urgent need for effective and affordable solutions against drones. The A-29 is the ideal tool to counter UAS efficiently and cost-effectively.”
Proven versatility and robustness
The A-29 Super Tucano is globally recognized for its durability and ability to operate on unpaved runways and forward bases in hostile environments. The aircraft has accumulated more than 600,000 flight hours in operations and is considered the global leader in the light attack turboprop category.
Its mission portfolio includes close air support (CAS), armed reconnaissance, advanced training, air interdiction, border patrol, and surveillance. Thanks to its operational efficiency and low life-cycle cost, the Super Tucano has already been selected by 22 air forces worldwide.
Additionally, the A-29 features advanced avionics systems with a modern human-machine interface, a reinforced structure for operations without infrastructure, and low maintenance costs, ensuring high availability and reliability.
About the A-29 Super Tucano
Developed by Embraer, the A-29 is a multi-mission turboprop aircraft used in more than 15 countries for roles ranging from pilot training to combat in conflict zones. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology for precise target identification and secure communications, the Super Tucano continues to evolve to meet the demands of the modern battlefield.
Source: Embraer – São José dos Campos, November 11, 2025. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
