Deal Overview
Portugal has placed an order for 12 A-29N Super Tucano aircraft from Brazilian manufacturer Embraer, valued at €200 million ($210 million). This acquisition marks a significant step in modernizing the Portuguese Air Force.
First NATO Standard Customer
Embraer announced on Monday that it has signed an agreement with the Portuguese Ministry of National Defense. Lisbon will become the inaugural customer for the NATO-standard version of the light attack and training aircraft.
Enhancing Air Force Capabilities
“This acquisition demonstrates Portugal’s commitment to modernizing its Air Force with a versatile and reliable aircraft, well-suited for Advanced Pilot Training, Light Attack, Close Air Support (CAS), and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions,” stated Embraer.
Part of a Larger Defense Strategy
The aircraft order is part of Portugal’s Close Support Aircraft program, which is one of eight key equipment initiatives prioritized under the country’s Military Programming Law—a comprehensive defense spending strategy.
Advanced Features
In alignment with operational requirements, Embraer emphasized that the new Super Tucanos will come equipped with “advanced avionics, NATO-specific communication systems, and other undisclosed new capabilities.”
Filling Capability Gaps
Embraer has been promoting a NATO-specific version of the A-29 for several years, making Portugal its first customer. The Portuguese Air Force has experienced a gap in advanced trainer capabilities since retiring the Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jets in 2018.
Government Approval and Additional Resources
Last week, Portugal’s Council of Ministers officially approved the aircraft order, which will also include “a flight simulator, logistics, support, goods, and services,” as per a government statement.
Industry Involvement
The project will involve significant participation from Portuguese industry in high-tech areas, aimed at adapting the aircraft to meet NATO standards and specifications. A select group of local aerospace companies is expected to contribute to the development and systems integration of these aircraft.
Strengthening Defense Ties
This latest order for Super Tucano aircraft also reinforces the defense cooperation between Brazil and Portugal, building on Lisbon’s previous order for five KC-390 Millennium tankers, with the second unit delivered in June.
New Subsidiary for Enhanced Support
In addition, Embraer recently announced the establishment of a new Portuguese subsidiary, Embraer Defense Europe, which aims to support “strategic objectives in creating relevant and innovative defense and security solutions for customers in Europe and NATO.”
