This contract includes an initial purchase of one aircraft with an option for five more, alongside mission equipment, integrated logistics services, and a flight simulator.
Embraer has announced a major deal with the Uruguayan Air Force (FAU) for up to six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft. This contract, part of FAU’s fleet renewal program, includes an initial purchase of one aircraft with an option for five more, alongside mission equipment, integrated logistics services, and a flight simulator. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2025.
With this acquisition, Uruguay joins Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Paraguay in operating the A-29 Super Tucano in South America. The aircraft, renowned for its versatility and operational flexibility, will bolster Uruguay’s capabilities in border surveillance, reconnaissance, and advanced training. The Super Tucano’s robust performance across diverse and challenging environments—from the Amazon rainforest to the Andean mountains—makes it a valuable asset for various missions.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO, Embraer Defense & Security, said, “We are honored by the decision of the Uruguayan Air Force, another South American nation to choose the A-29 Super Tucano, an aircraft that is a reference in its segment in the international market. With this acquisition, Uruguay will have differentiated capabilities that will greatly contribute to the surveillance of its borders and increase FAU’s operational readiness.”
The addition of the A-29 Super Tucano is particularly notable as Uruguay has not purchased new combat aircraft since 1981. General Luis H. De León, Commander in Chief of the Uruguayan Air Force, anticipates a boost in morale and professional satisfaction within the force.
Omar Paganini, Foreign Minister, Uruguayan highlighted the strategic benefits, “Uruguay seeks to strengthen its airspace surveillance and threat response capabilities, and it does so rely on Brazilian technology, which proposes a very suitable platform for these purposes, such as the A-29 Super Tucanos.”
The A-29 Super Tucano stands out globally with over 260 orders and more than 570,000 flight hours, including 60,000 in combat. Its combination of advanced technology, operational flexibility, and cost-effectiveness continues to make it the top choice for air forces needing a multi-mission aircraft capable of performing a wide range of tasks, from close air support to border surveillance.
Armando Castaingdebat, Minister of National Defense, Uruguayan said, “With this addition, we are taking a great leap forward in improving our defense capabilities and responding to the needs of controlling our territorial sovereignty and fighting crime in all its forms,”
Also read: HeliEFB partners with Lufthansa for enhanced flight planning
It is a versatile aircraft, featuring advanced technology for precise target identification, weapons systems, and comprehensive communications. The Super Tucano’s robust airframe allows operations from unpaved runways and austere environments, while its simple maintenance and low life cycle costs ensure high reliability and availability.
