Embraer
has handed over its fifth EMB 145 AEW&C aircraft – known as the E-99M in the FAB – to the Brazilian Air Force (FAB). Compared to the other four, the aircraft has already been upgraded so that, in addition to its airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) functions, it can also take part in reconnaissance, surveillance and airborne reconnaissance missions.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, said: “The delivery of the fifth E-99 is an important milestone for the E-99M project. This is the first aircraft to be delivered in the FOC (Full Operational Capability) configuration, with systems fully certified for use by the Brazilian Air Force to protect the country and its national sovereignty. The four aircraft already delivered will be upgraded so that they can fully perform all the tasks for which they were designed.”
The FAB’s E-99 was developed on the basis of the successful ERJ 145 regional aircraft and is capable of detecting, tracking and identifying targets within its detection range and transmitting the information via data link. The aircraft performs air surveillance, interception control and management, electronic reconnaissance and border surveillance missions.
The upgraded E-99M features an updated Erieye radar and command and control (C2) systems. In addition, a new Non-Communication (NCOM) electronic warfare system, a new IFF transponder, seven software-defined V/UHF radios, a new mission audio system with VoIP technology and a new mission audio and data recorder, as well as a data transmission function adapted to a new architecture. The interior of the aircraft has also been modernized to improve crew comfort and expand operational capacity, with five consoles redesigned and optimized for more efficient use of the upgraded systems.
The E-99M project is being implemented by the Combat Aircraft Program Coordinating Committee (COPAC) together with Embraer and international suppliers such as
Saab
Aeroelectronica International (AELI) and Rohde & Schwarz. Atech, a subsidiary of Embraer, is also participating in the project by developing part of the command and control system and six mission planning and analysis stations that will provide training and development opportunities for the crews.
Here
for more news about Embraer and
here
for more news about the Brazilian armed forces.
