Embraer and SNC Sign A-29 Super Tucano Purchase Agreement

Embraer, a global leader in the aerospace industry, and Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), a prominent entity in aerospace and national security, announced today at the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) Air, Space & Cyber Conference that they have finalised an agreement for the sale of one A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to SNC. This transaction is being conducted in anticipation of an upcoming Foreign Military Sales (FMS) case.

SNC's early investment in this aircraft enables the foreign partner to commence pilot training immediately upon the expected contract award. This approach also accelerates the timeline to achieve Initial Operational Capability (IOC) by up to one year. The aircraft will be produced at Embraer's defence production facility in Jacksonville, Florida. Over the past decade, SNC and Embraer have collaborated to deliver nearly 50 multi-mission combat aircraft to air forces worldwide.

“It is with great satisfaction that we see the A-29 made in the United States continuing its successful history. The Super Tucano offers unmatched light attack and multi-mission capabilities that are both effective and affordable to meet U.S. and Allied Forces’ needs. At the same time, we are confident that our relationship with SNC, which extends for more than 10 years, will continue to expand given that an increased number of FMS customers are seeing a growing need for this sort of capability,” said Frederico Lemos, Chief Commercial Officer of Embraer Defence & Security.

“SNC is well known for investing early and often in programs we believe in to expedite progress and performance on behalf of the warfighter,” said SNC Senior Vice President of Strategy and Technology Ray Fitzgerald. “By proactively pursuing this aircraft, we are happy to provide faster IOC and increased training time for the pilots who will soon fly this aircraft. We’ve long known the benefits of the A-29 Super Tucano and with increasing FMS demand worldwide, we’re proud to continue offering this outstanding aircraft to the US and its allies and we look forward to continuing our longstanding relationship with Embraer.”

The A-29 Super Tucano is a highly versatile and powerful turboprop aircraft, distinguished by its robust and durable design. This allows it to perform operations from unimproved runways and at forward operating bases in challenging environments and rugged terrains. With over 600,000 flight hours, it is recognised as the global leader in its class.

The A-29 Super Tucano is capable of executing a diverse array of missions, including advanced pilot training, close air support (CAS), air patrol, air interdiction, JTAC training, armed intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), border surveillance, and air escort. This exceptional blend of capabilities and operational versatility, coupled with its cost-effective life cycle, has led to its selection by 22 air forces globally. Most recently, the companies delivered three A-29 Super Tucano aircraft for the Combat Aviation Advisor (CAA) mission for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC).

The A-29 Super Tucano is the premier multi-mission aircraft in its category, equipped with state-of-the-art technology for precise target identification, advanced weaponry systems, and a comprehensive communications suite. Its capabilities are enhanced by advanced human-machine interface (HMI) avionics systems, integrated into a robust airframe that can function independently of infrastructure. Furthermore, the aircraft features reduced maintenance requirements and offers outstanding reliability, availability, and structural integrity, all while ensuring low life cycle costs.

Embraer Defence & Security conducts the assembly of the A-29 Super Tucano in Jacksonville, FL, catering to both American and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) clients. Additionally, Embraer offers spare parts, services, and support for the A-29 FMS fleet.

Embraer Defence & Security offers a comprehensive range of integrated solutions and applications, including the A-29 Super Tucano light attack and advanced trainer, as well as the versatile KC-390 Millennium military airlifter and air-to-air refueler. Their offerings extend to Command-and-Control Centres (C4I), Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) systems, and both ground and space systems. With an expanding global footprint, Embraer Defence & Security's products and solutions are utilised in over 60 countries.

SNC is a globally recognised leader in aerospace and national security, offering innovative solutions that enhance connected protection through advanced command, control, and communications systems. The company specialises in ISR, cyber, electromagnetic spectrum management, and other high-capability solutions for national security systems across all domains, including sea, land, air, space, and cyber. With a longstanding reputation in defence technology, SNC operates at the strategic intersection of commercial, defence, and non-traditional contractors. As one of the few privately owned mid-tier aerospace and defence contractors, SNC prides itself on its proactive investment strategy to ensure mission success, often ahead of schedule. Committed to anticipating future challenges, SNC develops solutions today to address the problems of tomorrow. Established in 1963, SNC is owned by Chairwoman Eren Ozmen and CEO Fatih Ozmen.