The Portuguese Air Force has received its first A-29N Super Tucano configured in accordance with NATO standards, becoming the first country in Europe and even the world to put this model into actual combat use.
This delivery is an important milestone in the modernization of Portugal’s military aviation, further expanding its advanced training and light combat capabilities.
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OGMA handover ceremony
The official delivery ceremony took place on December 17 at the OGMA facility in the presence of Defense Minister Nuno Melo and Air Force Commander João Cartaxo Alves. The aircraft delivered this time is the first of a planned 12 A-29N Super Tucanos.
Advanced training and close air support
According to the Air Force, the A-29N will be used primarily for advanced pilot training missions and for performing close air support in low-threat environments. The aircraft is equipped with NATO-compliant avionics and mission systems, establishing Portugal as the world’s first user of this specific model. 
Modernization and strategic advantage
Gen. Cartasso Alves noted that the inclusion of the A-29N is a key step in the Air Force’s modernization process and will replace a training platform that has been in service for nearly four decades. In addition, the new aircraft also improves its armed support capabilities for ground forces in joint or multinational operations, bringing strategic advantages and setting a new benchmark for similar air forces.
The mission scope covers anti-drone operations
Defense Minister Nuno Melo emphasized the high operational flexibility of the A-29N, pointing out that the aircraft is not only suitable for ground attack missions, but can also deal with emerging combat scenarios such as countering unmanned aerial vehicles. The minister said the decision was based on a technical assessment conducted by the Air Force.
Beja production line
During the ceremony, the two parties signed a letter of intent to establish an A-29N assembly and production line in Beiya. The project is expected to create high-skilled jobs and strengthen the domestic aviation industry. Locally produced aircraft can be made available through intergovernmental agreements in the future to meet Portugal’s own needs and those of other European countries.
operational base
The Air Force announced that the A-29N Super Tucano will be transferred to the 11th Beja Air Force Base in the near future and serve with the 101st Flying Squadron, nicknamed “Roncos”.
Source and image: Portuguese Air Force, Instagram @fap_oficial. This content is produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
