Portugal becomes the first European customer for Embraer’s A-29N Super Tucano combat and training aircraft. In a parliamentary hearing, the new Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo announced the procurement of the turboprop model for the domestic FAP. In a few years, the model could also become an issue for the German Armed Forces.
The current legal framework provides for a budget of 180.5 million euros through the Military Programming Law (LPM) for the acquisition of close air support aircraft (CAS) to replace the Alpha jets that were decommissioned in 2018 (note: these were – visually recognizable by their pointed noses – former German aircraft).
“The aircraft has ideal characteristics for use in Africa, where Portugal has several missions,” said Melo. The politician continued: “We also know that, independently of us, other NATO– and non-NATO countries are interested in procuring it.” Already during the LAAD Defense & Security 2023 (-> Current impressions from the LAAD Defense & Security) in Rio, Embraer announced the introduction of the A-29N Super Tucano version of the light attack, armed reconnaissance and training aircraft. This is a NATO configuration designed to meet the needs of European nations. This includes, for example, a new data link that allows operation with just one pilot. But also other modifications such as embedded virtual, augmented and mixed reality. https://militaeraktuell.at/die-oesterreicher-auf-der-eurosatory-2024-in-paris/
Super Tucano production in Portugal
Of course, Portugal’s choice is also motivated to a large extent by Embraer’s presence in the country. The Brazilians hold 65 percent of the Portuguese subsidiary OGMA in Alverca (north of Lisbon). The company is also the Armed Forces of two C-130 overhauls (-> Bundesheer-Hercules move to Portugal). Maintenance facilities and logistical support for the aircraft’s technological equipment can be found there, but there are also plans to manufacture parts of the aircraft destined for Portugal on site. The presidents of Brazil and Portugal agreed this back in April 2023 in Alverca. The then Minister of Defense, Jose Mucio, explained that the certification of the aircraft by NATO last year “opens various doors in the European market and other markets, and that production in Portugal already meets NATO requirements”.
Portugal wants to “bring home” training
The long-standing cooperation between Portugal and Brazil in the military sector, such as various exchange and training programs, is also decisive for the cooperation that has now been agreed. And there are synergies here too, as the Super Tucano is also used as an advanced training aircraft and offers a versatile platform for training fighter pilots. The FAP is already planning to deploy the Super Tucanos in the 103rd Caracóis Squadron and thus resume domestic pilot training, which was suspended following the withdrawal of the Alpha Jets in 2018.
The cockpit of the A-29N is very similar to that of jet fighter aircraft, including ejection seats. This reduces pilot workload and maximizes situational awareness, with an advanced ergonomic human-machine interface. And Embraer offers – simulation partner here is Rheinmetall – a full range of ground training devices and stations that reduce the flight hours required for pilot training, accelerate the learning process and optimize operating costs, according to the manufacturer.
More “fighters” or more trainers?
In addition to Portugal, Embraer is also pinning its hopes on Austria with its A-29N: in this country, a replacement for the PC-7 Mk.1, which has been in operation since 1981, is likely to become an issue in the medium term – although the aircraft have not yet been flown and are even set to receive a moderate instrument/NavAid upgrade. The BMLV Armaments Directorate, which visited LAAD and Embraer in 2023, certainly showed interest. In addition to Embraer, other manufacturers such as Beechcraft-Textron, Grob and Diamond Aircraft on the radar.
If you ask around, the Super Tucano is seen more as a light attack aircraft for “counter-insurgency” (COIN) and specifically for tactical (weapons) training than as a basic trainer. It is argued, for example, that models such as the T-6II would always be a third cheaper per unit and also cheaper to operate. In addition, the Super Tucano would be aerodynamically more unstable, not because it was poorly constructed, but because it was designed to be heavier as a light combat aircraft. Against this background, the significantly longer fuselage compared to the competition is cited. This is intended to keep the tail unit out of the wing flow. On the other hand, the Super Tucano can of course also be used for modern and advanced training, for example with HOTAS design or the on-board simulation of the APG-68 radar. In addition, the Austrian Armed Forces want to retain the optional armament, not least with regard to a role against so-called “slow movers”, but also with a view to combating drones. This in turn rules out the Swiss manufacturer Pilatus, as the Swiss are no longer able to supply aircraft with cabling for weapons missions – after the furore over “bomb-throwing” PC-9s in Africa. https://militaeraktuell.at/auftakt-zu-miliz-trifft-wirtschaft-in-wien/ In the end, in Austria – although the topic is currently not a priority – it is the price, the overall package and domestic added value will at least play a part in deciding the type. It may be an advantage for the Brazilians that Austria is already a customer with the C-390M (-> ÖBH: Next step towards Embraer C-390M procurement) and, of course, that the Super Tucanos can then also be manufactured in the EU.
Return of the winged MG
The Super Tucano is currently officially exported to 15 countries as an A-29 (i.e. without the NATO “N”). The design is robust and built to last in harsh conditions, with low maintenance requirements. The aircraft can be operated on unprepared runways and offers high survivability with active and passive protection features (radar warning receiver, missile proximity warning and automated decoy launchers). The intuitive controls allow pilots to focus on mission outcomes while benefiting from enhanced protection through armored cockpit and engine compartment. On-board systems also include a gimbal with advanced electro-optical and infrared sensors, an integrated laser marker for precise close air support and secure tactical communications and navigation systems. The A-29N’s weapon management system (SMS) is claimed to be “fully integrated” and will manage five NATO standard stations. An interesting feature is the positioning of two .50 caliber (12.7 millimeter) super-heavy machine guns and ammunition not on but IN the wings. In addition, the A-29N emphasizes flexibility with more than 160 configuration options (see table above). However, weapons must of course be procured separately by the customer.
The technical data of the Super Tucano:
Maximum speed: 590 km/h Flight duration: More than three hours with internal fuel, with two external tanks and, for example, an EO/IR sensor, just over five hours Climb rate: 990 meters per minute Summit altitude: 10.6 kilometers Take-off distance (in standard configuration): 900 meters Landing distance in standard configuration: 860 meters Update: On 4 July, a resolution was approved by the Council of Ministers in Oliveira de Azeméis. July, a resolution was approved in a communiqué of the Council of Ministers in Oliveira de Azeméis, authorizing the opening of technical and negotiation talks with a view to the acquisition of A-29 Super Tucano aircraft by the Portuguese State, as well as the design and development of their NATO configuration.
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