Article Posted on : - Feb 28, 2013

A-29 Super Tucano. An Embraer photo.

SAO PAULO (BNS): The U S Air Force (USAF) has selected the Embraer Defence and Security's A-29 Super Tucano for its Light Air Support (LAS) programme.

The aircraft will be used to conduct advanced flight training, aerial reconnaissance, and light air support operations.

The contract worth $427 million has been signed for 20 Light Air Support (LAS) aircraft, as well as ground-based devices to support pilot training and all maintenance and supply requirements for the aircraft and associated equipment.

The A-29 Super Tucano is a robust, versatile and powerful turboprop aircraft capable of carrying out a wide range of missions, including close air support and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, according to Embraer.

The aircraft is equipped with advanced electronic, electro-optic, infrared and laser system technologies, as well as secure radio systems with data links and unrivalled munitions capacity.

The aircraft in use with nine air forces around the world has employed state-of-the-art munitions on real operational missions. It will be supplied in partnership with Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) as the prime contractor and will be built in Jacksonville, Florida.