Portugal receives first NATO-configured A-29N Super Tucano, becoming Europe’s and the world’s first operator of this variant, with roles in pilot training, close air support, and counter-drone missions.
Portugal’s Air Force has received its first A-29N Super Tucano aircraft, marking the introduction of a new training and light combat capability and making Portugal the first European operator of the NATO-configured variant of the platform.
The delivery ceremony took place on December 17 at OGMA, Portugal’s aerospace company, attended by Defense Minister Nuno Melo and Portuguese Air Force Chief of Staff General João Cartaxo Alves. The aircraft delivered are the first of a planned fleet of 12 A-29N Super Tucanos.
The Portuguese Air Force stated that the A-29N will serve a dual role: advanced pilot training and close air support (CAS) in low-threat environments. Equipped with a NATO configuration, Portugal becomes both the first European operator and the first worldwide operator of this NATO-adapted variant.
General Cartaxo Alves described the delivery as a key step in modernizing the Air Force.
“The delivery of these aircraft represents another decisive step in the Air Force’s modernization, enhancing its robustness and technological capabilities,” he said. “In addition to replacing training assets that have served for nearly four decades, this acquisition strengthens new capabilities, particularly close air support in joint or combined operations, ensuring protection for ground forces.”
He also highlighted Portugal’s unique position as an operator of the NATO-configured A-29N.
“The Air Force establishes itself as a reference among similar forces by operating the first NATO-adapted A-29N Super Tucano, providing Portugal with strategic advantage and economic return,” he said.
Defense Minister Nuno Melo emphasized the aircraft’s operational versatility and relevance for current and future missions.
“The Super Tucano introduces a proven air-to-ground attack capability to support national forces deployed abroad,” Melo said. “It also enables new roles, including counter-drone operations, demonstrating the flexibility of the aircraft selected by the Air Force, with political decisions guided by technical assessments.”
The event also included the signing of a letter of interest to establish an A-29N manufacturing facility in Beja, Portugal. The proposed plant would produce aircraft for Portuguese state requirements and potentially for other European nations through government-to-government arrangements. Officials noted that the project would generate skilled jobs and strengthen the Portuguese and European defense industrial base.
The A-29N Super Tucano is a turboprop aircraft designed for advanced pilot training, close air support, and light attack missions. It is widely used globally, especially in roles requiring low operating costs, endurance, and operational flexibility.
The newly delivered aircraft are scheduled to fly to Air Base No. 11 in Beja, where they will be formally handed over to Squadron 101 “Roncos”, the primary operator of the new fleet.
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