Uruguay to Acquire Brazilian A-29 Super Tucano for $100 Million.

Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou and Defense Minister Armando Castaingdebat have announced the acquisition of a fleet of A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft from the Brazilian company Embraer, for a sum of $100 million. This decision marks a significant step in strengthening Uruguay's military capabilities.
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The Super Tucano, also known as the A-29, is an aircraft designed and manufactured by the Brazilian company Embraer. (Picture source: Embraer)

For the Uruguayan Air Force (FAU), the acquisition of the Super Tucano represents a notable technological leap. These aircraft will modernize and enhance the operational capabilities of the FAU, filling a gap left by the absence of effective combat aircraft. In addition to their military role, the Super Tucano will also serve training purposes, providing Uruguayan pilots with the opportunity to train on modern and sophisticated aircraft.

The choice of the A-29 Super Tucano fits into a strategy aimed at meeting the immediate needs of national defense while ensuring a sustainable and economical solution. The reduced operational costs and ease of maintenance of these aircraft are significant advantages for Uruguay.

The decision to purchase these aircraft from a South American neighbor, Brazil, also highlights a strategic choice. It reflects the Uruguayan government's desire to strengthen ties with its regional partners while ensuring the continuity of military investments regardless of internal political changes.

President Lacalle Pou and Minister Castaingdebat emphasized that this acquisition is a direct response to the current needs of national defense, particularly in the face of challenges posed by smuggling operations and transnational threats. By enhancing aerial surveillance and interdiction capabilities, Uruguay equips itself with additional means to protect its borders and ensure the security of its territory.

The Super Tucano, also known as the A-29, is an aircraft designed and manufactured by the Brazilian company Embraer. It fulfills both training and ground attack roles, offering valuable versatility for air forces. The Super Tucano made its first flight on June 2, 1999, and entered service in 2003. As of June 2023, 293 units had been built, demonstrating its success and global adoption.

This aircraft is powered by a single Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68C turboprop engine, which produces 1,600 horsepower. With a wingspan of 11.14 meters, a length of 11.33 meters, and a height of 3.97 meters, the Super Tucano has a wing area of 19.4 square meters. It weighs 3,200 kg empty and can reach a maximum weight of 5,400 kg.

In terms of performance, the Super Tucano can cruise at a speed of 520 km/h and reach a maximum speed of 593 km/h. It can climb to a ceiling of 10,670 meters and has a range of 550 km, with a total endurance of 2,855 kilometers.

The armament of the Super Tucano is both varied and powerful. It is equipped with two FN Herstal M3P 12.7 mm machine guns integrated into the wings. For missions requiring increased firepower, it has five external pylons: two under each wing and one central, capable of carrying up to 1,500 kg of munitions. Among these external weapons are 20 mm cannon pods under the fuselage, 70 mm rocket pods, as well as conventional (Iron) and guided (Smart) bombs. It can also be equipped with air-to-air missiles such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder, MAA-1 Piranha, or Python 3/4. Additionally, the three central pylons are "wet," allowing for the installation of additional fuel tanks.