Portugal becomes first European operator of Brazilian A-29N Super Tucano light attack aircraft.

On December 12, 2024, the Portuguese government announced its decision to acquire 12 Embraer A-29N Super Tucano light attack aircraft for €200 million. This agreement follows the July 4, 2024, Council of Ministers resolution, which authorized the initiation of technical and negotiation discussions with Embraer for the potential acquisition of the aircraft and their adaptation to NATO standards. The deal includes a flight simulator, logistical sustainment packages, and involvement of Portuguese industry in the production process.
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The A-29N Super Tucano, introduced by Embraer in April 2023, is suitable for close air support (CAS), intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as advanced pilot training missions. (Picture source: Embraer)

The A-29N Super Tucano, introduced by Embraer in April 2023 during the LAAD Defence & Security exhibition, is a NATO-compliant version of the Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano light attack aircraft. This variant incorporates a NATO datalink, single-pilot operation capability, and training systems featuring augmented, virtual, and mixed reality technologies. These upgrades were designed to meet the operational requirements of NATO member states, making the aircraft suitable for close air support (CAS), intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as advanced pilot training missions.

The acquisition addresses the gap in Portugal’s air force capabilities left by the retirement of the Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jets in January 2018. The A-29N will fulfill multiple roles, including CAS, ISR, and advanced training, while also supporting Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) missions. The requirement for such an aircraft was outlined in the 2022-2034 Military Strategic Vision, which emphasized the need for platforms suitable for operations in permissive and semi-permissive environments, including deployments in Africa under missions such as the UN’s MINUSCA in the Central African Republic.

Portugal’s Military Programming Law (MPL), revised on August 17, 2023, allocated €180.5 million for the “Close Air Support” project, under which the acquisition of these aircraft falls. During a workshop in April 2024, organized by idD Portugal Defence, it was revealed that the project budget also covers the acquisition of support infrastructure, though at the time, specific timelines and the number of aircraft remained undisclosed. At AED Days 2024, the Portuguese Air Force Chief of Staff reiterated the importance of a light attack aircraft for both operational roles and advanced pilot training.

The memorandum of understanding signed in April 2023 between Embraer and four Portuguese companies—CEiiA, Empordef, GMV, and OGMA—supports the development of technologies related to the A-29N and ensures Portuguese industry involvement. OGMA, in which Embraer has a majority stake, will play a key role in the production and maintenance of the aircraft, as it already does for Embraer’s KC-390 Millennium transport aircraft.

Portugal will be the first European operator of the A-29N Super Tucano, making this a notable development for Embraer’s efforts to expand its market within NATO member states. The agreement is expected to enhance interoperability within NATO by equipping the Portuguese Air Force with an aircraft tailored to the alliance’s operational requirements. Further details, including the delivery schedule and the extent of Portuguese industry’s role in production, will be clarified upon the signing of the formal contract.