Embraer has delivered the first five A-29N Super Tucano aircraft to the Portuguese Air Force, marking the entry into service of a new NATO-configured variant of the proven light attack and training platform. Portugal becomes the first country to operate the A-29N, a version specifically adapted to meet NATO operational requirements.
The handover ceremony took place at OGMA’s facilities in Alverca and was attended by Portuguese government officials, Air Force leadership, Embraer executives, and invited guests. The delivery comes just one year and one day after the acquisition agreement was signed, underscoring Embraer’s ability to respond rapidly to customer requirements. The five aircraft are part of a total order of 12, representing a key milestone in Portugal’s ongoing air force modernization program.
During the event, Embraer and the Portuguese State signed a Letter of Interest (LOI) to assess the potential establishment of an A-29N final assembly line in Portugal. The proposed facility would be intended to meet growing demand from European customers, particularly through government-to-government agreements, and would contribute to strengthening both Portugal’s national defense industry and the wider European defense industrial base.
Portuguese Minister of Defense Nuno Melo emphasized the operational flexibility of the aircraft and its relevance to emerging threats. “We are introducing a new air attack capability with proven results to support our Detached National Forces while also addressing future operational scenarios. The Super Tucano now offers the ability to conduct counter-UAS missions, highlighting the versatility of the aircraft selected by the Air Force. This was a military-driven choice, supported by technical assessments and endorsed at the political level,” he said.
Chief of Staff of the Portuguese Air Force, General João Cartaxo Alves, described the delivery as a decisive step in the service’s modernization. “Beyond replacing pilot training platforms that have been in use for nearly four decades, this acquisition enables the development of new operational capabilities, particularly in close air support within joint and combined operations. By becoming the first air force to operate the NATO-configured A-29N, Portugal positions itself as a reference among allied forces while ensuring strategic and economic returns for the country,” he stated.
According to Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, the program further deepens the company’s strategic partnership with Portugal. “The delivery of the A-29N strengthens the cooperation established through the KC-390 Millennium program. Interest in the A-29 for counter-UAS missions is growing across Europe, and a potential assembly line in Portugal could open new opportunities for industrial cooperation with the Portuguese defense sector,” he said.
With more than 600,000 flight hours accumulated and selection by 22 air forces worldwide, the A-29 Super Tucano is a global leader in its class. Designed for efficiency, reliability, and operational flexibility, the aircraft supports a wide range of missions including advanced pilot training, close air support, armed ISR, border surveillance, JTAC training, air patrol, and air escort. Its robust airframe, advanced avionics, low operating costs, and ability to operate from austere environments continue to drive interest among air forces seeking a cost-effective multi-mission solution.
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