Home
Catalog
Bombers & Strategic Aircraft
A-29 Super Tucano Aircraft

A-29 Super Tucano Aircraft

Manufacturer: Embraer Defense & Security
Category: Bombers & Strategic Aircraft
Add to Compare

Maximum Speed 370 mph (320 knots)
Range 720 nautical miles
Payload Capacity 3,300 lb (1,500 kg)
Crew 1 or 2

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	A-29 Super Tucano
Manufacturer	Embraer Defense & Security
Country of Origin	Brazil
Introduction / In Service Since	2003
Status	Active
Category	Light Attack / Trainer
Crew	1 or 2
Unit Cost	~$18 million

2. Dimensions & Structure

Length	11.38 m (37.3 ft)
Wingspan	11.14 m (36.6 ft)
Height	3.97 m (13 ft)
Wing Area	19.4 m² (209 ft²)
Empty Weight	3,200 kg (7,050 lb)
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	5,400 kg (11,905 lb)

3. Performance

Maximum Speed	320 knots (370 mph)
Range	720 nm (1,330 km)
Combat Radius	300 nm (556 km)
Service Ceiling	35,000 ft
Rate of Climb	3,300 ft/min

4. Powerplant

Engine Type	1 × Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68C
Thrust (per engine)	1,600 shp
Total Thrust	1,600 shp

5. Payload & Armament

Internal Payload Capacity	2 × .50-cal machine guns
Weapons Bay	None
Compatible Weapons	Rockets, smart bombs, gun pods
Hardpoints	5 external

6. Avionics & Systems

Radar System	Optional mission radar
Navigation	GPS/INS
Electronic Warfare (EW)	Countermeasure suite
Stealth Features	None

7. Operational History

Primary Operator	Brazil, U.S., Colombia, Nigeria
Conflict Usage	COIN, border patrol, counter-narcotics
Notable Missions	Afghan Light Air Support missions

8. Additional Information

Variants	A-29B (two-seat), A-29A (single-seat)
Successor / Future Replacement	None planned
Notable Features	Night-vision cockpit, glass avionics
Estimated Operational Life	12,000 flight hours

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

6.2

Stealth Capability 4 / 10
Payload Capacity 6 / 10
Range & Endurance 6 / 10
Electronic Warfare 5 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 10 / 10

PROS

Proven combat record in multiple theaters
Low operational and maintenance costs
Excellent for COIN and CAS missions
Advanced avionics and mission systems
Rugged design suited for austere environments

CONS

Limited top speed compared to jet aircraft
Not suitable for high-intensity air combat
Lower payload capacity
Vulnerable to advanced air defenses
Shorter range than medium jet bombers

A-29 Super Tucano: Light Attack and Training Powerhouse

The Embraer A-29 Super Tucano, also known as the EMB 314, is a Brazilian-built light attack and advanced trainer aircraft designed for close air support (CAS), counterinsurgency (COIN), intelligence, and pilot training. Developed by Embraer Defense & Security, it has become one of the most proven and cost-effective light combat aircraft in service worldwide, adopted by over 15 nations including the United States, Afghanistan, Colombia, and Nigeria.

Equipped with a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68C turboprop engine, the A-29 delivers 1,600 shaft horsepower, achieving a maximum speed of 320 knots (370 mph) and a combat radius of around 300 nautical miles. The aircraft combines modern avionics, rugged performance, and low operational cost, making it an ideal platform for asymmetric warfare and training missions.

The Super Tucano can carry up to 1,500 kg (3,300 lb) of weapons on five external hardpoints, including machine guns, rockets, and precision-guided bombs. It features an advanced glass cockpit, Head-Up Display (HUD), night-vision compatibility, and mission systems compatible with NATO standards.

Operationally, the A-29 has proven itself in real combat scenarios — particularly in Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East — excelling in low-intensity conflicts where jets like the F-16 are overkill. The U.S. Air Force’s Light Air Support (LAS) program also selected the A-29 for Afghan and partner nation training, solidifying its global reputation as a reliable, multi-role aircraft.

A-29 Super Tucano Price in US

The A-29 Super Tucano costs approximately $18 million per unit (depending on configuration and mission equipment). Its low maintenance requirements and efficient fuel consumption make it significantly cheaper to operate than jet-powered counterparts, offering an affordable solution for nations prioritizing counterinsurgency and border security missions.

A-29 Super Tucano FAQs

What is special about the A-29 Super Tucano?

The A-29 Super Tucano stands out for its versatility, rugged design, and low operating cost. It’s optimized for counterinsurgency (COIN), close air support (CAS), reconnaissance, and pilot training. Built to operate from short, unpaved runways, the aircraft combines advanced avionics, precision weapons, and long endurance, making it highly effective in low-intensity conflict environments.

Does the U.S. use the A-29 Super Tucano?

Yes. The U.S. Air Force selected the A-29 Super Tucano under its Light Air Support (LAS) program to train pilots from allied nations such as Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Lebanon. The aircraft is used by the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) for training and light attack evaluations, emphasizing its interoperability and cost-effectiveness.

Is the Super Tucano better than the A-10?

The A-29 Super Tucano and the A-10 Thunderbolt II serve very different missions. The A-10 is a heavy jet-powered CAS platform designed for high-threat environments, whereas the Super Tucano is ideal for low-intensity counterinsurgency operations. While the A-10 carries a much heavier payload and superior armor, the A-29 excels in efficiency, loiter time, and affordability, making it a better choice for smaller-scale operations or nations with limited defense budgets.

How many A-29 Super Tucanos have been built?

As of 2025, over 260 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft have been produced by Embraer Defense & Security, with deliveries spanning more than 15 countries, including Brazil, Colombia, the United States, and the Philippines. Production continues to meet international demand for light attack and training aircraft.

A-29 Super Tucano generation?

The A-29 Super Tucano belongs to the modern generation of turboprop light attack aircraft. It integrates fourth-generation avionics, glass cockpit displays, and smart-weapon compatibility, but is not classified among jet “fighter generations” like fifth or sixth-gen aircraft. It represents a new breed of COIN aircraft designed for endurance, versatility, and precision in modern asymmetric warfare.

Get real time update about this post category directly on your device, subscribe now.

Reviews

Disclaimer Note

The information provided on TheDefenseWatch.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of our content regarding defense and aerospace products, technologies, and specifications, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate or up-to-date due to the evolving nature of military technology and classified data.TheDefenseWatch.com does not warrant the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information for any specific purpose. Users are advised to consult official sources, such as manufacturers, government publications, or defense agencies, for precise and verified data before making decisions based on our content.We are not affiliated with any defense manufacturers, governments, or military organizations mentioned. Opinions, reviews, and ratings reflect expert analysis but are subjective and should not be considered endorsements. TheDefenseWatch.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this website’s content.External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. TheDefenseWatch.com reserves the right to update or modify content without prior notice. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy.