At a military technology convention in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Embraer unveiled the A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft in a NATO configuration. The new A-29N version has the necessary features for NATO deployments, including single-pilot operation and data link capabilities. The aircraft’s training devices were upgraded to support Joint Attack Controller Training missions and other military practices with virtual, augmented, and mixed-reality approaches.
“This is a new stage in the operational life of the A-29 Super Tucano,” said Embraer Defense & Security CEO and President Bosco da Costa Jr. “We see many application possibilities for the A-29N at the moment. Several European countries have shown interest in specific aircraft capabilities that we have now introduced with this version.”
Over 260 A-29 units have been delivered worldwide to date, with more than 15 international defense organizations operating the aircraft, including the US Air Force.
The jet is flown for different military missions, including threat engagements, counterinsurgency, and aerial surveillance. Its rugged design is specialized for operating from unpaved runways and remote airfields with little support, making it highly available and deployable at low cost.
The standard modules of the A-29 include an electro-optical-infrared system, laser target tracker, secure voice communications, and night vision goggles. “The A-29 Super Tucano represents the gold standard in its field, combining superior aircraft performance with 21st-century ωeapons, integrated sensors, and surveillance systems to create a highly influential air power component,” according to Embraer.