Portugal Receives First A-29N Super Tucanos as Embraer Eyes Local Assembly Line

A-29N PORTUGUESE AIR FORCE

Aviation News – Portugal has taken delivery of its first five A-29N Super Tucano aircraft, marking a major step in modernizing the Portuguese Air Force and strengthening national defense capabilities.

The handover took place at OGMA’s facilities and comes just over a year after the acquisition agreement was signed between Embraer and the Portuguese State. The delivery is part of a broader order for 12 aircraft and underscores Portugal’s push to upgrade its air power while reinforcing industrial cooperation with Brazil-based Embraer.

The ceremony was attended by Portuguese authorities, Embraer executives, and invited guests. On the same day, Embraer and the Portuguese State signed a Letter of Interest (LOI) to explore the potential establishment of an A-29N final assembly line in Portugal, a move that could position the country as a key European hub for the aircraft. A new final assembly line would support rising European demand for an aircraft capable of conducting counter-UAS missions.

The A-29N Super Tucano is a light attack and advanced training aircraft designed for a wide range of missions, including pilot training, surveillance, and close air support. Its versatility, low operating costs, and NATO-compatible configuration make it a practical operational bolt in Portugal’s evolving defense framework.