The A-29 Super Tucano is a light attack and advanced training turboprop aircraft developed by Embraer Defense & Security, a division of the Brazilian company Embraer. Since its first flight in 1999, the Super Tucano has been recognized for its versatility, robustness, and efficiency in combat missions, becoming one of the most successful military aircraft manufactured in Brazil.
Features and Capabilities
Equipped with a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68C engine, the Super Tucano can reach speeds of up to 590 km/h and has a range of more than 1,500 kilometers, with the capability to operate in high-temperature environments and on short, unprepared runways.
The aircraft can be equipped with a wide range of armaments, including machine guns, laser-guided bombs, air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, making it suitable for a variety of military missions, from air interception to counter-insurgency operations.
It features a modern cockpit with advanced avionics systems, including multifunctional displays, targeting and inertial navigation systems, enabling night operations and performance in adverse weather conditions.
Utilization
The A-29 Super Tucano has been adopted by various air forces around the world, not only for advanced pilot training but also for aerial patrol, close air support, and border surveillance. Moreover, its effectiveness in anti-guerrilla operations and its precision strike capability have made it a popular choice for counter-narcotics campaigns, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
How much does an A-29 Super Tucano cost?
The price of a new A-29 ranges around $10 million, potentially reaching up to $30 million (R$ 158 million) in packages that include advanced equipment, training, and parts
Export and International Recognition
Embraer has exported the A-29 Super Tucano to more than a dozen countries, including nations in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Besides its adoption by foreign air forces, the Super Tucano has won significant contracts, such as the United States Air Force’s Light Air Support (LAS) program, aimed at providing air support in low-intensity conflicts.
The success of the A-29 Super Tucano in the international market highlights not just its operational effectiveness and cost-benefit, but also the advancement of the Brazilian aeronautical industry in the global defense scenario.
Technical Data
Performance
Maximum speed: About 590 km/h (320 knots).
Range: More than 1,500 km with internal tanks, extendable with external tanks.
Service ceiling: Approximately 10,668 meters (35,000 feet).
Action radius: Capable of performing missions lasting more than 4 hours, depending on configuration and mission profile.
Dimensions
Length: 11.38 meters.
Wingspan: 11.14 meters.
Height: 3.97 meters.
Weight
Empty weight: Approximately 3,200 kg.
Maximum takeoff weight: Up to 5,400 kg.
Propulsion
Engine: Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68C turboprop with 1,600 shp of power.
Propeller: Hartzell with five blades, electronically controlled.
Armament
Hardpoints: Capability for armaments on up to five points under the wings and fuselage.
Types of armaments: Includes integrated .50 machine guns, guided and unguided bombs, air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, in addition to pods for additional armament.
Source: Embraer – This content was created with the help of AI
