SNC/EMBRAER Team Delivers Two Additional U.S.-Built A-29 Super Tucano Aircraft to A-29 Afghanistan Program
Two A-29 Super Tucano aircraft were delivered this week to the U.S. Air Force (USAF) in support of the A-29 Afghanistan Program. The aircraft, which were delivered almost five months earlier than expected, are produced by prime contractor Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) in partnership with Embraer Defense & Security in Jacksonville, Florida. The aircraft are used to conduct aerial reconnaissance, light air support missions and to support Afghan advanced flight training operations at Moody AFB, Georgia.
“We are proud to continue our support of the Air Force’s A-29 Afghanistan Program as it is not only a testament to the capability of the Super Tucano, but also to its ease of operation and cost effectiveness,” said Taco Gilbert, senior vice president for SNC’s IAS business area. “There is no other aircraft like the A-29 in its ability to provide light attack support, aerial reconnaissance, training and combat pilot seasoning. Its continued demand demonstrates its value to air forces and partner nations the world over. We were pleased to deliver these aircraft to the large fleet ahead of schedule as we remain committed to the important mission of our customer.”
The A-29 Super Tucano has been selected by 14 air forces on three continents and holds an excellent performance record: over 320,000 flight hours and more than 40,000 combat hours. With more than 150 certified load configurations, it is equipped with advanced avionics, an electro-optical, infrared and laser targeting system, as well as communications and datalinks to enable Afghan Air Force combat capability.
“The A-29 is the best option for close air support operations as well as the most proven, reliable and cost-effective solution for counterinsurgency and irregular warfare scenarios,” said Jackson Schneider, president and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. “While the aircraft was designed from the ground up for the Light Attack fighter role, it also makes an exceptionally effective trainer to develop fighter pilots. We are honored to continue to support the U.S. Government and its critical partner nations in this critical mission.”
