Portugal Expands Air Force Capabilities with New Embraer A-29N Super Tucanos, While Luxair Orders More E195-E2 Jets

The Portuguese Ministry of National Defence has recently signed a contract with Embraer, the Brazilian aerospace giant, to acquire 12 A-29N Super Tucano aircraft for the Portuguese Air Force. This agreement marks Portugal as the launch customer for the upgraded variant of this advanced trainer and light attack aircraft. The new A-29N Super Tucano features advanced avionics, NATO-specific communication systems, and additional capabilities tailored to meet Portugal’s unique operational needs.

Bosco da Costa Junior, president and CEO of Embraer Defence and Security, expressed gratitude to the Portuguese Ministry of National Defence and the Air Force for their trust in Embraer’s solutions. He emphasized that this partnership not only supports the modernization of the Portuguese Air Force but also deepens the collaboration between Embraer and the local defense industry, paving the way for further industrial cooperation.

The A-29 Super Tucano is the global leader in its category, having secured over 260 orders and surpassed 570,000 flight hours, including 60,000 hours in combat. Its operational flexibility and comprehensive capabilities have made it increasingly popular among air forces worldwide. The aircraft is versatile, able to perform a variety of missions such as advanced pilot training, close air support, air interdiction, JTAC training, border surveillance, reconnaissance, and air escort.

In another significant development, Luxair, the national airline of Luxembourg, has placed a firm order with Embraer for two E195-E2 aircraft. These narrowbody jets will complement the airline’s existing fleet and further strengthen its operations. The new order follows Luxair’s 2023 commitment for four E195-E2 aircraft, which includes two additional options. With this latest purchase, Luxair now has a total of six E195-E2 aircraft on order, with three remaining purchase rights and the option to convert them to the E190-E2 model as needed. The first aircraft from this 2023 order is expected to be delivered in early 2026, with additional delivery slots secured for 2027.