Brazil to upgrade 68 A-29 Super Tucanos light attack aircraft to A-29M for Gripen interoperability.

As reported by Defensa on November 19, 2024, the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) will initiate the modernization of its A-29 Super Tucano fleet to the A-29M standard in 2025, following the conclusion of a feasibility study expected in early 2025. This program, which will improve the A-29's interoperability with the Gripen fighter jet, involves 68 aircraft currently divided among four operational squadrons: Scorpio, Flecha, Grifo, and Joker. The Joker squadron, based at Natal Air Base, is tasked with the advanced training of new combat aviation officers transitioning from the Air Force Academy (AFA).
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Designed for low-intensity conflicts, the Embraer A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft carries a variety of weaponry, including machine guns, bombs, and precision-guided munitions. (Picture source: Brazilian Air Force)

The A-29M modernization is designed to align the Super Tucano’s avionics and systems with those of the Gripen NG (JAS 39E/F), the FAB's advanced combat aircraft. Planned upgrades include replacing the current cockpit displays with a Wide Area Display (WAD), similar to that in the Gripen NG. Other additions include new electro-optical sensors, laser-guided weapons, reinforced armor, self-protection systems against missile threats, and the BR-2 data link. The data link will enable communication with Gripen aircraft, E-99 radar platforms, and ground stations.

The upgrade package will also introduce a synthetic training system that simulates electronic warfare environments, aerial and ground threats, and radar modes for air-to-air and air-to-ground operations. This system is expected to enhance pilot situational awareness and training efficiency. FAB leadership has confirmed that the modernization program aims to sustain and transition its existing fleet rather than acquire new aircraft.

The A-29 Super Tucano, also known as the EMB-314, is a light attack and advanced training aircraft originally developed by the Brazilian company Embraer. It has been operational with the FAB since 2003, with 99 units acquired under the ALX program. Designed for low-intensity conflicts, it carries a variety of weaponry, including machine guns, bombs, and precision-guided munitions. The aircraft features a rugged design capable of operations in challenging environments such as the Amazon region. Embraer has also developed a NATO-compliant variant of the aircraft, the A-29N, which is expected to enter service with the Portuguese Air Force. The company has also expanded production through partnerships in Portugal and the United States, producing aircraft for international operators, including Angola, Ecuador, Nigeria, and the Philippines.

In operational use, the Super Tucano has supported border patrol, counter-narcotics missions, and training. It has been employed in several operations, including Operation Ágata, where it carried out strikes against illicit airstrips. Internationally, the aircraft has been used in combat by multiple operators, including Colombia, where it participated in precision strikes against insurgent groups.

The modernization program, which will extend the operational lifespan of the FAB’s fleet by 15 years, follows the FAB's ongoing acquisition of Gripen NG fighters. Since 2014, Brazil has procured 40 Gripen units, with eight delivered to date. The modernization of the A-29 fleet is intended to improve the transition and operational readiness of pilots moving to the Gripen platform.