The Portuguese Air Force took delivery of the first A-29N Super Tucano aircraft configured to NATO standards, becoming the first country in Europe and the world to put this variant into operational service.
This delivery marks an important milestone in the modernization of Portugal’s military aviation force by expanding its advanced training and light attack capabilities.
Indian ceremony held at OGMA
The official handover ceremony was held at the OGMA facility on December 17 and was attended by Defense Minister Nuno Melo and Portuguese Air Force Commander General Joao Cartas Alves. The delivered aircraft is the first of a total of 12 A-29N Super Tucanos planned to be introduced.
Advanced training and close air support
According to the Air Force, the A-29N will be mainly used for pilot advanced training missions and close air support missions in low-threat environments. Equipped with avionics and mission systems that meet NATO standards, this platform positions Portugal as the world’s first operator of this specific variant. 
Modernization and Strategic Advantage
General Cartas Alves emphasized that the introduction of the A-29N is a decisive step in the modernization process to replace a training platform that has been in use for about 40 years. The new aircraft also provides strategic advantage by expanding the ability to support ground forces in joint or multinational operations, setting a new standard among similar air forces.
Anti-drone operations included in mission scope
Defense Minister Nuno Melo emphasized the operational flexibility of the A-29N, noting that the aircraft is suitable not only for air-to-ground attack missions but also for new operational environments such as countering unmanned aerial vehicles. According to the minister, the decision was taken based on a technical assessment conducted by the Air Force.
Beja’s production line
During the event, a letter of intent was signed to establish an A-29N assembly and production line in Beja. This project aims to create high-skill jobs and strengthen the national aviation industry. Locally produced aircraft could be provided to meet Portugal’s future needs and those of other European countries through intergovernmental agreements.
base of operations
The Air Force said the A-29N Super Tucano will move to 11th Air Force Base Beja in the coming days, where it will be operated by the 101st Squadron, known as “Roncos.”
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Source and image: Portuguese Air Force, Instagram @fap_oficial. This content was created with the help of AI and has been reviewed by the editorial staff.
