The two A-29N Super Tucanos arrived this Saturday in Alverca, where they will be adapted to the configurations required by the Portuguese Air Force before official delivery.
Alverca — On Saturday, November 8, at 1:22 p.m., two new A-29N Super Tucano aircraft landed on Portuguese soil, marking the arrival of the second batch of light attack and advanced training turboprops acquired by the Portuguese Air Force (FAP) from Embraer.
The transatlantic flight, which began on Thursday (6), departed from Brazil with stopovers in Fernando de Noronha, Cape Verde, and the Canary Islands, under the escort of a P-3C Cup+ Orion from Squadron 601 – “Lobos.” After the crossing, the two Super Tucanos landed in Alverca, where they will undergo an adaptation process at the OGMA facilities, a joint venture between the Portuguese government and the Brazilian manufacturer.
Aviation photographer Paulo Mata captured the arrival of the aircraft and shared the images on social network X. The two new planes join the first three Super Tucanos received in August, which began flight testing in the country in July.
Before formal delivery to the FAP, the aircraft will be equipped with systems compatible with NATO standards, in line with Portugal’s operational requirements. The process includes the installation of specific avionics and equipment, strengthening interoperability with allied forces.
The acquisition of 12 A-29N Super Tucano aircraft, approved by the Portuguese government in December 2024, is valued at around €200 million and also includes a flight simulator, pilot training, and logistical and technical support.
The program highlights the participation of the Portuguese industry, which will contribute to the integration and certification of the aircraft to NATO standards. The A-29N was developed by Embraer based on the requirements of the Atlantic Alliance, combining versatility and low operating costs — ideal for advanced pilot training and close air support missions.
The arrival of this second batch reinforces the strategic defense partnership between Brazil and Portugal. Moreover, the model has gained prominence in Europe amid the increasing use of drones in conflict zones. In September, Embraer and Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) proposed the A-29 Super Tucano as an effective platform for countering Shahed-type drones used by Russia.
Portugal’s Minister of Defense first announced interest in acquiring the model in June 2023, consolidating a project that is now approaching its operational phase.
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Source and images: Portuguese Air Force | X @fap_pt. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
