Embraer and SNC Forge Strategic Partnership for A-29 Super Tucano Acquisition
Embraer, a worldwide frontrunner in the aerospace sector, and SNC, a global authority in aerospace and national security, today at the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) Air, Space & Cyber Conference declared that the firms have formed a pact for the acquisition of one A-29 Super Tucano aircraft by SNC. This transaction is occurring ahead of an impending Foreign Military Sales (FMS) initiative.
SNC’s timely investment in this aircraft enables the firms’ international partner to promptly commence pilot training upon expected contract confirmation. Additionally, it shortens the timeline to Initial Operational Capability (IOC) by up to a year. The aircraft will be produced at the Embraer defense manufacturing facility situated in Jacksonville, Florida. Over a span of a decade, SNC and Embraer have collaborated to provide nearly 50 of the versatile combat aircraft to air forces worldwide.
“It is with immense pleasure that we witness the A-29 manufactured in the United States continuing its prosperous legacy. The Super Tucano delivers unparalleled light attack and multi-mission attributes that are efficient and economical to satisfy U.S. and Allied Forces’ requirements. Simultaneously, we are confident that our partnership with SNC, which has lasted over 10 years, will keep growing as more FMS customers recognize the rising demand for this type of capability,” stated Frederico Lemos, Chief Commercial Officer of Embraer Defense & Security.
“SNC is recognized for making early and repeated investments in the initiatives we trust to accelerate progress and efficacy for the warfighter,” remarked SNC Senior Vice President of Strategy and Technology Ray Fitzgerald. “By actively pursuing this aircraft, we are pleased to offer quicker IOC and extended training periods for the pilots who will soon operate this aircraft. We have long acknowledged the advantages of the A-29 Super Tucano, and with the increasing demand for FMS globally, we are delighted to continue providing this exceptional aircraft to the U.S. and its allies while anticipating the continuation of our enduring partnership with Embraer.”
The A-29 Super Tucano is a adaptable and potent turboprop aircraft renowned for its sturdy and resilient design, enabling it to conduct operations from unimproved airstrips and at forward operating bases in challenging environments and rough terrain. It stands as the dominant leader in its category with over 600,000 flight hours logged.
The A-29 Super Tucano meets a broad range of missions, including advanced pilot training, close air support (CAS), aerial surveillance, air interdiction, JTAC instruction, armed intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), border monitoring, and air escort. Due to this unparalleled amalgamation of capabilities and operational adaptability, along with its cost-effective life cycle, the Super Tucano has been chosen by 22 air forces around the globe. Recently, the companies provided three A-29 Super Tucano aircraft for the Combat Aviation Advisor (CAA) mission for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC).
The A-29 Super Tucano ranks as the most efficient multi-mission aircraft in its class, outfitted with cutting-edge technology for accurate target recognition, weapon systems, and an all-inclusive communications suite. Its capabilities are further augmented by advanced human-machine interface (HMI) avionics systems integrated within a robust airframe that can function without extensive infrastructure. Moreover, the aircraft features diminished maintenance needs and offers an exceptional level of reliability, availability, and structural robustness along with low life cycle costs.
