Embraer Secures Deal to Supply Six A-29 Super Tucanos Aircraft to Uruguayan Air Force.

On August 26, 2024, the Uruguayan Air Force (FAU) officially finalized the purchase of six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft from the Brazilian manufacturer Embraer. This contract, part of a fleet renewal program, schedules the delivery of one aircraft in 2025, with an option for five additional units.

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Embraer A-29 Super Tucanos Aircraft (Picture source: Embraer)

This development marks a significant milestone for Uruguay, which had not acquired new combat aircraft since 1981. The A-29 Super Tucano, known for its robustness and versatility, will be utilized for a variety of missions including border surveillance, controlling illegal activities, reconnaissance, and advanced training.

South America now has six countries operating this aircraft, underscoring its crucial role in aerial operations across the continent. The Super Tucano is particularly suited for demanding environments, capable of operating in both the heat of deserts and the mountainous regions or tropical forests.

Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, expressed satisfaction, stating that Uruguay's commitment demonstrates confidence in the Super Tucano's capabilities and reinforces the aircraft's position as a leader in its category on the international market. Omar Paganini, the Uruguayan Foreign Minister, emphasized the importance of this acquisition in enhancing the nation's threat response capabilities and airspace surveillance.

Armando Castaingdebat, Uruguay’s Minister of National Defense, noted that this acquisition represents a significant leap forward for Uruguay's defensive capabilities, focusing on controlling territorial sovereignty and combating crime.

The A-29 Super Tucano combines high-performance features such as precise target identification, a sophisticated weapons system, and a comprehensive communications suite. It is also noted for its simplified maintenance and high reliability, making it a cost-effective and durable choice for air forces worldwide.

The A-29 Super Tucano is a turboprop aircraft designed for diverse military operations, offering a robust combination of performance and versatility. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68/3 engine, it delivers a maximum power of 1,600 horsepower, enabling it to fly at top speeds of 590 km/h. Its maximum range is about 1,300 kilometers, with a flight endurance of up to 6.5 hours, thus providing significant capability for extended missions.

The aircraft features a fully digital cockpit, night vision compatibility, and advanced avionics including integrated navigation and attack systems for precision operations. The Super Tucano is armed with two FN Herstal M3P 12.7 mm machine guns integrated into its wings and can also carry a variety of additional payloads such as guided bombs, rockets, and extra munitions on five external hardpoints, allowing for great operational flexibility. Its sturdy design enables efficient operation from unprepared runways and in austere environments, making it an ideal platform for counter-insurgency, border surveillance, and close air support missions.