FAU Turns Possibilities into Reality with Acquisition of Five Embraer A-29 Super Tucano Aircraft
Embraer has disclosed today that the Uruguayan Air Force (FAU) and the Uruguayan Ministry of National Defense (MDN) have converted options for five A-29 Super Tucano aircraft into confirmed acquisitions. This pact is part of a commitment established in August 2024 when the FAU announced a confirmed order for one aircraft along with the options that have now been solidified. The deal also includes mission assets, integrated logistics solutions, and a flight simulator. This arrangement is crucial to a fleet modernization program aimed at enhancing the operational capability of the FAU.
“The collaboration between Embraer and the Uruguayan Air Force has been thriving, and we are particularly thrilled to announce this agreement during a year that commemorates the 50th anniversary of Embraer’s first export deal with Uruguay,” stated Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. “We are ready to deliver the finest multifunctional aircraft to the FAU while providing our complete assistance to enhance their operational readiness and fortify their capacity to carry out strategic missions like border surveillance.”
“Securing the A-29 Super Tucano and the flight simulator will bestow Uruguay with critical air defense capabilities and fulfills the government’s commitment to modernize the resources and equipment of our Armed Forces for undertaking their assigned missions,” remarked Uruguayan Minister of National Defense, Armando Castaingdebat.
“This enhancement boosts our technological capabilities, and upon finalization of the A-29 acquisition, it allows us to address, in collaboration with Embraer, the emerging regional security dynamics,” stated General Luis H. De León, Commander in Chief of the Uruguayan Air Force.
With Uruguay and the recent procurement of the first A-29 in NATO configuration (A-29N) by Portugal, the A-29 Super Tucano now features 20 operators worldwide, amassing over 290 orders. The number of air forces adopting the A-29 Super Tucano continues to expand due to its unmatched blend of features, establishing it as the most economical, accessible, and versatile option available.
For Air Forces in pursuit of a dependable, comprehensive, efficient, reliable, and budget-friendly solution on a single platform, along with exceptional operational adaptability, the A-29 Super Tucano offers a wide range of missions including close air support, aerial reconnaissance, special operations, air interdiction, JTAC tasks, forward air controller (FAC) roles, air and tactical coordination (TAC), armed ISR, border surveillance, reconnaissance, air escort, and basic, operational, and advanced training, as well as a transition to air superiority fighters, and JTAC/LIFT and FAC training.
