Embraer has delivered the first five A-29N Super Tucano aircraft to the Portuguese Air Force during a ceremony at OGMA’s facilities, attended by government officials, Embraer executives and invited guests. The delivery took place just one year and one day after the acquisition contract was signed, underlining Embraer’s ability to meet customer operational requirements. The aircraft form part of an order for 12 units and mark an important step in Portugal’s programme to modernise its air capabilities.
During the event, Embraer and the Portuguese state also signed a Letter of Interest covering the potential establishment of a final assembly line for the A-29N in Portugal. Aircraft assembled at the site would be intended to meet potential demand from other European countries through government-to-government agreements, supporting the development of Portugal’s defence industrial base and contributing to wider European industrial capability.
Commenting on the programme, Portugal’s Minister of Defence, Nuno Melo, said the introduction of the Super Tucano provides the Armed Forces with a proven light attack capability to support Detached National Forces while also addressing emerging operational scenarios. He noted that the aircraft’s ability to conduct counter-drone missions demonstrates its flexibility and added that the selection of the Super Tucano was driven by the Air Force, with political decisions informed by technical assessments.
