Without a doubt, the A-29 Super Tucano is one of the most outstanding aircraft in the light fighter category.
Embraer started deg this aircraft in the 90s and at the time the A-29 (or EMB-314) we know today was called ALX Super Tucano, a modified Tucano, more robust, and now prepared for combat missions.
The first flight of the specimen was on June 2, 1999 and the necessary tests for certification took place.
The FAB, most interested in the project, received its first units in 2004, a total of 99 aircraft were ordered, 49 of which would be A-29A (single-seat) and 50 A-29B (two-seat).
The introduction of this aircraft in the Brazilian Air Force was an aeronautics strategy allied to its reformulation, with a light attack aircraft the air force could have greater border patrols, specific attack missions and pilot training.
It is no wonder that today the A-29 has a market not only here in Brazil, but also in several nations around the world. For example, the assembly lines in Brazil and the USA, by the company Sierra Aviation.
The light combat aircraft
Many applications can be made with the A-29, but in fact the aircraft is a light fighter, which makes it used in air policing missions, interception of low-speed aircraft, air-to-surface attack, among others. activities.
The cost benefit of the aircraft is one of the positive factors, as well as the low maintenance of the aircraft compared to other aircraft.
Another positive feature of the aircraft is its ability to operate on unprepared runways, such as in desert and sandy environments. Or even its operation in environments with high humidity, as is the case in the Amazon.
The avionics of the Super Tucano is another advantage of the aircraft, as it allows the pilot to be included in the modernity of current aviation, in addition to making work easier.
The use in day and night missions with this aircraft is also a highlight, such actions are possible thanks to the EO/IR system that collects images for a high precision attack.
The multi-mission capability of the A-29 allows the aircraft to also be used in advanced training missions, an example of which is the use of the aircraft by the Joker Squadron, which trains FAB fighter pilots.
Aircraft power, speed, firepower and maneuverability are aspects that favor such operations.
Here in Brazil, the A-29 Super Tucanos are used by the Esquadrilha da Fumaça, the FAB demonstration team has used the aircraft since 2015 and with it the team can incorporate new maneuvers into the display, such as the lead and the lancevak.
However, it is worth emphasizing that the main purpose of the A-29 is light attack, surveillance, patrol, advanced training, and air missions. However, nothing prevents the Super Tucano from being used for manoeuvres, but some adaptations were necessary.
Super Toucan in combat zone
The Super Tucano already has combat actions recorded in its history, as is the case with the use of aircraft in Afghanistan by the Afghan air force.
In August of last year, the Operation Tapio at ALA-5, in Campo Grande/MS. In this great t operation between FAB aircraft, the A-29 played a prominent role, see what this FAB aviator explained about the use and capabilities of the Super Tucano.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqHqIYeZuTg
To date, the Super Tucano has been selected by 15 air forces worldwide and more recently in the Philippines.
Some of its competitors are as follows:
- Beechcraft T-6 Texan II;
- KAI KT-1;
- Pilate PC-21;
- Pilate PC-9M;
INFORMATION
Function:
Basic/Advanced Training and Precision Light Attack.
Length:
11,3m
Height:
3,97m
Wingspan:
11,14m
Maximum weight:
5.400 kg
Maximum speed:
590 Km / h
Reach:
2.855 Km
Runtime:
8,4 hours
Armament:
Maximum payload of 1500 kg with 2 .50″ M3P machine guns, 5 bomb attachment points (230 kg and/or 120 kg) and rocket launchers.
- Information source: FAB and Embraer
