Support Aims to Bolster Lebanese Armed Forces
The US State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) worth an estimated $100 million to sustain Lebanon’s fleet of A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft.
Enhancing Capabilities Through Sustainment
The deal will provide Lebanon’s six A-29s with essential components, including Cartridge Actuated Devices and Propellent Actuated Devices (CAD/PADs), engine parts, aircraft engine and ground handling equipment, and both major and minor modifications, spares, and accessories.
A-29s Acquired Through US Aid
Lebanon received the first two A-29 aircraft in October 2017, with the full fleet delivered by 2018. The acquisition was funded through American Foreign Military Financing (FMF), which mandates the purchase of American-made weapons.
Close Air Support
„The sale of A-29 sustainment will support the LAF’s [Lebanese Armed Forces] implementation of the cessation of hostilities by providing maintenance to this critical aircraft which is used to conduct Close Air Support as part of ground maneuver operations as well as manned Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance,” the announcement stated.
Sierra Nevada Corporation as Primary Contractor
Sierra Nevada Corporation, which produces the A-29 with Embraer in Florida, will be the primary contractor. The final dollar amount may shift during negotiations, pending Congressional approval.
Expanded Fleet Plans
The Lebanese armed forces had previously considered expanding the A-29 fleet to as many as 12 aircraft. The air force was the first to equip the A-29 with laser-guided APKWS missiles.
Key Capabilities
Former Lebanese Air Force Chief Brig. Gen. Ziad Haykal highlighted the A-29’s versatility, stating that it can perform close air support and counterinsurgency missions, and can be armed with various weapons depending on the mission, within 20 minutes.
Other US Support
In addition to the A-29s, the US has provided the LAF with MD-530 F+ close air support helicopters and Protector-class patrol boats, enhancing Lebanon’s naval and air force capabilities.
LAF
Trump’s administration halted $95 million in FMF aid to the LAF, earlier in January this year, but the assistance was unfrozen on March. While FMS sales may be funded through FMF assistance, it was not immediately clear if the A-29 sustainment would tap into that money.
LAF in South Litani River Sector
Lebanese Armed Forces have taken center stage in the wake of the 13-month conflict between Israel and the Lebanese-based armed group Hezbollah. The LAF have deployed extensively in South Litani River Sector, and it was handed Hezbollah warehouses and armament in the area in accordance with the ceasefire deal inked on the 27 of November 2024.
