Embraer expands African footprint with new A-29 Super Tucano sale

While Embraer did not specify which country placed the order, Military Africa suggests Ghana might be involved. Ghana previously ordered five Super Tucanos in 2015 but did not finalize the deal. Embraer showcased the aircraft's capabilities at Accra Air Base in early 2024.

Embraer's African market includes Angola, Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, and Nigeria:

- Angola operates six Super Tucanos for border surveillance.

- Burkina Faso acquired three for counter-insurgency.

- Mali uses four for similar purposes.

- Mauritania also has four.

- Nigeria purchased 12 for counter-terrorism.

Once delivered to this new customer, there will be 33 active Super Tucanos in Africa. Globally, Brazil remains the largest operator with nearly 100 units; other major users include Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, and Indonesia.

Embraer has secured over 290 orders globally for the A-29 Super Tucano. The aircraft has logged over 570,000 flight hours with more than 60,000 hours in combat scenarios such as Afghanistan and Colombia. The United States also uses it for training purposes.

The aircraft boasts a simple maintenance design that reduces lifecycle costs and improves mission readiness by minimizing ground time. Its adaptability to austere environments enhances its appeal for operators conducting missions in challenging regions. Equipped with over 100 weapon systems and state-of-the-art avionics, it provides air forces with advantages against insurgents and drug gangs.