Image: from Força Aérea Portuguesa X@fap_pt
By José Carlos Palma | Editor-in-Chief with Agencies
On November 8th, at 13:22, two more Embraer A-29N Super Tucano aircraft touched down on Portuguese soil, marking another significant milestone in strengthening the capabilities of the Portuguese Air Force. The two planes are part of a broader effort to modernize the country’s fleet and are set to be officially handed over to the Portuguese Air Force in the coming months.
The transatlantic flight from Brazil to Portugal was a complex and meticulously planned journey, with the two Super Tucanos receiving support from a P-3C Cup+ Orion aircraft from Squadron 601 – “Lobos”. This joint operation included multiple strategic stops in Fernando de Noronha, Cape Verde, and the Canary Islands before the final leg to Portugal. The aircraft took off from Brazil on November 6th, with the entire journey carefully coordinated to ensure safe and efficient transport across the Atlantic.
Photos of the 2nd batch of future Portuguese AF @embraer A-29N #SuperTucano during stopover in Recife 🇧🇷 on ferry flight to @OGMA_PT 🇵🇹 where they’ll receive additional @NATO equipment
📷 Keane Freire / https://t.co/OXiqAZQB7O pic.twitter.com/yGTEKU8f1H— Paulo Mata (@ironbirdphotos) November 4, 2025
Upon arrival at Alverca Airfield, the two new A-29N Super Tucanos will undergo a series of modifications and adaptations to meet the specific operational requirements of the Portuguese Air Force. This work will be carried out at the facilities of OGMA (Indústria Aeronáutica de Portugal), where the aircraft will be tailored to the needs of the air force’s mission sets.
These two aircraft are part of a broader acquisition by Portugal, which has purchased a total of 12 A-29N Super Tucano units from Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. The Super Tucano is designed for advanced pilot training as well as close air support missions. Its versatility makes it ideal for both individual and joint operations, providing support for a range of air-to-ground combat and surveillance activities. The A-29N is also expected to be used in combined operations with NATO allies.
The arrival of these aircraft further bolsters the Portuguese Air Force’s capacity for advanced flight training and tactical operations. The Super Tucano’s proven capabilities in various environments make it a valuable asset for Portugal, especially in scenarios requiring close air support for ground forces and counterinsurgency missions.
Earlier this year, in August, the first three A-29N aircraft arrived in Portugal. The addition of these two planes brings the fleet closer to its full complement of 12 units. This strategic acquisition is part of Portugal’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military capabilities and ensure its forces remain prepared for a range of operational challenges, both within national borders and as part of international missions.
As Portugal continues to enhance its air force capabilities, the A-29N Super Tucano is poised to play a key role in training the next generation of pilots and supporting a range of mission types, solidifying the country’s commitment to maintaining a strong and effective defense posture.
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