Embraer Launches NATO-Compliant A-29N Super Tucano Light Attack Aircraft

New version of the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, the A-29N, will feature equipment to meet NATO's operational requirements, including a new datalink and single-pilot operation By Joseph Macey / 13 Apr 2023

Air Surveillance Radar

Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Follow DA

Embraer has unveiled a new version of its A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, the A-29N, with features to fulfil NATO’s operational requirements, including a new datalink and single-pilot operation.

These features are expected to further increase the aircraft’s employment possibilities, allowing, for example, its use in Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) training missions. Training devices will also be upgraded to the world’s most demanding standards, including virtual, augmented, and mixed reality.

“This is a new stage in the operational life of the A-29 Super Tucano,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense and Security. “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.”

With more than 260 units delivered worldwide, the aircraft is said to have been selected by more than 15 air forces worldwide, including the United States Air Force (USAF).

Developed as a highly versatile aircraft, the A-29 Super Tucano can perform a broad range of missions, including light attack, aerial surveillance and interception, and counterinsurgency. The A-29 is rugged and versatile, operating from remote and unpaved runways on forward deployed operational bases with little support, all with low operating costs and high availability (above 90%).

In addition to combat roles, the aircraft is widely used as an advanced trainer. Its ability to simulate combat missions and upload and download flight data has made it a highly effective training platform. As a real multi-mission aircraft, the A-29 has the flexibility to provide air forces with a single platform for light attack, armed reconnaissance, close air support, and advanced training, thus optimizing their fleets.

It is equipped with various state-of-the-art sensors and weapons, including an electro-optical/infrared system with laser designator, night vision goggles, secure voice communications, and a data-link package. As a result, the A-29 Super Tucano is believed to represent the gold standard in its field, combining superior aircraft performance with 21st-century weapons, integrated sensors, and surveillance systems to create a highly influential air power component.

Posted by Joseph Macey Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

GA-ASI Invests in Dutch Firms to Advance Defense Innovation After BMN

GA-ASI is set to invest in two Dutch companies following their selection at the Blue Magic Netherlands defense innovation event

Apr 25, 2025
AI-Powered Situational Awareness Platform Launched for Armored Vehicles

Maris-Tech Ltd. has introduced Diamond Ultra, a new integrated AI system designed to improve threat detection and situational awareness in armored fighting vehicles (AFVs)

Apr 25, 2025
Radiofrequency Weapon Disables Drone Swarms in Landmark Army Trial

A UK-developed radiofrequency weapon has successfully downed drone swarms in trials, showcasing a low-cost, high-impact solution to modern aerial threats

Apr 25, 2025
American Standard Circuits’ High-Reliability PCB Services

KT Technical Solutions is highlighting ASC, a vendor and trusted provider of high-performance PCB solutions with a focus on speed, quality, and application-specific expertise

Apr 25, 2025
Q&A with DEFCROS: Key Insights for the 2025 Expo

DEFCROS Founder Kristijan Ilovača discusses the expo’s rapid growth, international ambitions, and how the event aims to support defense and security innovators

Apr 24, 2025
Precision Airdrop System Receives Marketing Approval

ParaZero has received marketing approval from the Israeli Ministry of Defense’s DECA for the DropAir™ Precision Airdrop System, developed in collaboration with Heven Drones

Apr 24, 2025

Featured Content

Q&A with DEFCROS: Key Insights for the 2025 Expo

DEFCROS Founder Kristijan Ilovača discusses the expo’s rapid growth, international ambitions, and how the event aims to support defense and security innovators

Apr 24, 2025
Ophir® FoldIR Lens Enhances Long-Range Imaging for Defense & Security Operations

The new Ophir® FoldIR 25-275mm MWIR zoom lens delivers compact, long-range imaging with low-SWaP performance for drones and small gimbal platforms

Apr 17, 2025
Textron Systems to Support Software & Payload Development for Navy’s MCM USV

Textron Systems is set to support the software development and payload integration for the Navy’s Mine Countermeasures (MCM) Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), focusing on future mission capabilities and advanced system integration

Apr 14, 2025
Advancing Defense Capability Through Strategic Collaboration Defense Advancement works with major OEMs to foster collaboration and increase engagement with SMEs, to accelerate innovation and drive defense capabilities forward.