Embraer Unveils First A-29N Super Tucanos for Portugal’s Air Force and Explores Local Assembly Opportunities

• Portugal sets a milestone as the inaugural nation to utilize the new A-29 variant tailored for NATO’s mission requirements.
• The introduction of a final assembly line is poised to meet the increasing demand for aircraft adept at countering UAS threats in Europe.

Alverca, Portugal, December 17, 2025 – Embraer (NYSE: EMBJ / B3: EMBJ3) proudly marked a significant moment by delivering the first five A-29N Super Tucanos to the Portuguese Air Force (PRT AF) during a ceremony at OGMA’s facilities. This memorable event gathered various dignitaries, Embraer executives, and numerous guests. The timing is noteworthy, occurring just one year and one day after the acquisition agreement was finalized, showcasing Embraer’s commitment to fulfilling its clients’ operational needs. This delivery is part of a broader order of 12 units, epitomizing a key advancement in Portugal’s airpower modernization initiative.

On this occasion, a Letter of Interest (LOI) was signed between Embraer and the Portuguese government regarding the potential establishment of an A-29N final assembly line in Portugal. The production at this facility aims to cater to demands from other European nations through government-to-government negotiations, thereby bolstering the defense industrial landscape in Portugal and beyond.

“We are not merely enhancing air attack capabilities with a proven platform for the Detached National Forces; we are also preparing for emerging scenarios. The Super Tucano now accommodates anti-drone operations, highlighting the versatility of the aircraft selected by the Air Force. This choice represents the Air Force’s insights, backed by solid technical evaluations,” remarked Nuno Melo, Portugal’s Minister of Defense.

“The formal handover of these aircraft signifies a pivotal stride in Air Force modernization, enhancing its resilience and technological proficiency. In addition to replacing pilot training equipment that has served us for nearly four decades, this acquisition introduces vital new capabilities, particularly in close air support during joint or combined operations, ensuring robust protection for ground forces. Concurrently, the Air Force solidifies its standing among peers by operating the first NATO-configured A-29N Super Tucano, ensuring Portugal reaps strategic and economic benefits,” expressed General João Cartaxo Alves, Chief of Staff of the Portuguese Air Force.

“The delivery of the A-29N Super Tucanos signifies the intensification and expansion of the strategic partnership between the Portuguese government and Embraer, previously showcased in the KC-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft program. There is increased interest in deploying the A-29 for counter-UAS missions across Europe, and a potential assembly site in Portugal opens avenues for new business opportunities and enhanced collaboration with the Portuguese defense sector,” stated Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.

This milestone allows Portugal to join a growing roster of nations leveraging the A-29’s proven capabilities for a vast array of missions. The aircraft’s integration into active service reinforces Embraer’s dedication to providing reliable and innovative aircraft solutions to NATO allies.

Recognized as a global leader, the Super Tucano has been selected by 22 air forces worldwide, achieving over 600,000 flight hours. Its unique combination of advanced features has garnered interest from numerous nations, making it the market’s most efficient option.

For air forces seeking a proven, multifaceted, efficient, and reliable aerial platform, the A-29 Super Tucano excels across a wide spectrum of missions. These include Advanced Pilot Training, Close Air Support (CAS), air patrol, air interdiction, Joint Terminal Attack Control (JTAC) training, armed Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), border security, and air escort operations.

The A-29 Super Tucano stands as the premier multi-mission aircraft in its category, boasting cutting-edge technology for precise target identification, advanced weapon systems, and a comprehensive communication suite. Its capabilities are further enhanced by sophisticated Human-Machine Interface (HMI) avionics integrated within a robust airframe, allowing operations from unpaved runways in challenging environments. Furthermore, it features low maintenance demands while delivering high reliability and long-term cost-effectiveness.