By Brazil Stock Guide – Embraer SA’s defense and security unit delivered the first two A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to the Uruguayan Air Force, marking the initial handover under a contract signed in late 2024, the Brazilian planemaker said Tuesday.
The delivery is part of Uruguay’s fleet renewal program aimed at expanding operational capabilities including air patrol and border surveillance. The agreement also includes mission equipment, integrated logistics services and a flight simulator, according to Embraer (EMBR3).
“We are honored to deliver the first A-29 Super Tucanos to the Uruguayan Air Force,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, president and chief executive officer of Embraer Defense & Security. “This milestone strengthens a partnership that has developed over more than 50 years, since Uruguay became the first international customer to acquire an Embraer aircraft.”
Uruguay Air Force Commander-in-Chief Air General Fernando Colina said the acquisition represents a turning point for the country’s combat fleet modernization.
“Today is a historic day, of great importance for Uruguay and its Air Force,” Colina said. “With the completion of the acquisition of the Embraer A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, the long-awaited modernization is achieved, and this incorporation will mark an operational and technological change for our combat fleet.”
Colina added that the aircraft’s adoption positions Uruguay among a limited group of operators worldwide. “This historic milestone places Uruguay in the region with an aircraft that operates in 22 air forces around the world, with advanced technology and an appropriate operating cost,” he said. “With the arrival of the Super Tucanos, Uruguay gains a great tool to achieve its objectives.”
Colonel Shandelaio González, commander of the II Air Brigade, said the new aircraft will open the door for additional technological capabilities.
“The incorporation of these aircraft opens a new technological horizon,” González said. “Beyond good flight performance and modern onboard systems, the aircraft open new possibilities, allowing the acquisition of new capabilities, which redefines the Air Power of the Uruguayan Air Force.”
Luis H. De León, a former commander-in-chief of the Uruguayan Air Force, said the aircraft will strengthen airspace control nationwide.
“With the incorporation of the A-29 Super Tucano, the Uruguayan Air Force provides the Republic with a capability that will significantly help the air defense system for the control of airspace throughout the national territory,” De León said.
Embraer said the A-29 Super Tucano has been selected by 22 air forces globally and has logged more than 600,000 flight hours. The aircraft is used for advanced pilot training, close air support, aerial patrol, border surveillance, reconnaissance and, more recently, counter-drone operations.
Designed to operate in austere environments, including unpaved runways, the platform combines modern avionics, weapons systems and communications, while maintaining low maintenance requirements and reduced operating costs, the company said.
Embraer (EMBR3) is a Brazilian aerospace manufacturer active in commercial aviation, business jets, defense and security, and agricultural aviation. The company said it has delivered more than 9,000 aircraft since its founding in 1969.
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