AviationNews – The Portuguese Air Force (FAP) marked a significant milestone on Saturday with the arrival of its second batch of A-29N Super Tucano aircraft. The two planes landed at Alverca on November 8, continuing a strategic procurement from Embraer that will enhance Portugal’s light attack and advanced training capabilities to NATO standards.
The delivery completes a trans-Atlantic ferry flight from Brazil, which began on November 6 and included stops in Cape Verde and the Canary Islands. The aircraft were escorted by a FAP P-3C Cup+ Orion. This new pair joins the first three A-29Ns delivered in August. The entire 200 million euro deal, approved by the Portuguese government in December 2024, is for 12 Super Tucanos, and includes a flight simulator, pilot training, and comprehensive logistical support.
Before official handover to the FAP, the aircraft will undergo significant modification at the OGMA maintenance facility in Alverca, a joint venture between the Portuguese government and Embraer. This critical phase involves the integration of NATO-specific avionics and communications systems, ensuring the fleet is fully interoperable with allied forces. The A-29N variant was specifically developed by Embraer to meet the operational requirements of European NATO members.
“This program highlights the strong involvement of Portuguese industry in the certification and integration of the aircraft,” stated a defense spokesperson. “The A-29N is an ideal platform, combining low operational costs with the high versatility required for advanced training and close air support missions.”
The acquisition bolsters the strategic defense partnership between Portugal and Brazil. Moreover, the Super Tucano is attracting wider interest in Europe as a cost-effective solution to modern security threats, including the proliferation of drones. Embraer and the Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) recently proposed the A-29 as an effective countermeasure to Shahed-type drones used in recent conflicts.
This second delivery reinforces Portugal’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces. As these aircraft are integrated, the A-29N fleet will provide the Portuguese Air Force with a robust, flexible, and NATO-compatible asset for a new era of security challenges.
