A WW2-style Attack Aircraft? In the 21st century?!

The A-29 Super Tucano may look like a relic of WWII in the modern era of stealth fighters, hypersonic missiles, and smart bombs, but its purpose is unique and specific. This turboprop aircraft was designed to address the challenges faced by Brazil—a vast country covered in jungle and rivers, where conventional military infrastructure is difficult to maintain. Instead of defending against foreign invasions, Brazil’s primary security threats come from criminals, smugglers, cartels, and revolutionary groups.

The Origins: EMB 312 Tucano

Before the Super Tucano, Embraer developed the EMB 312 Tucano in the 1970s as a cost-effective and reliable training aircraft. This single-engine turboprop, with a two-seat configuration, ejection seats, and excellent visibility, proved to be an efficient training tool while also doubling as a light combat aircraft. The Tucano’s affordability and versatility made it popular not just in Brazil but around the world, particularly for counterinsurgency and law enforcement roles.

The A-29 Super Tucano: A Reinvention

The Super Tucano, officially the EMB-314, was a major redesign of the original Tucano. It was larger, structurally reinforced, and armored to withstand harsher combat conditions. While the original weighed around 3 tons, the new version reached nearly 5.5 tons. The aircraft also featured an upgraded Pratt & Whitney PT-6A-68C engine producing 1,600 horsepower—double that of its predecessor—resulting in better speed and maneuverability.

Performance-wise, the Super Tucano can reach a top speed of 590 km/h, a range of 720 miles with a full combat load, and a maximum patrol duration of 8.5 hours. It operates at altitudes of up to 35,000 feet, giving it impressive endurance for missions that require long loiter times over remote areas.

In terms of firepower, it is heavily armed with integrated 12.7 mm machine guns, air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, guided and unguided bombs, and various sensor pods. This arsenal allows it to perform a variety of missions, from close air support to border patrol and counterinsurgency operations.

Global Success and Future Prospects

Brazil ordered 99 Super Tucanos, with deliveries beginning in 2003. The aircraft quickly gained a reputation for reliability and effectiveness, leading to widespread interest from international customers. In 2008, a partnership between Embraer and Sierra Nevada Corporation resulted in A-29 production in the U.S. for both American military use and export. By 2025, around 300 aircraft have been delivered, serving in the air forces of 16 nations.

However, with the rise of attack drones, debates have emerged about the future of manned light attack aircraft like the Super Tucano. Some argue that drones are more cost-effective and expendable, making them better suited for modern warfare. Others counter that the Super Tucano offers greater versatility, can operate in rugged conditions without advanced infrastructure, and provides a human pilot’s judgment in combat situations.

The question remains: Does the Super Tucano still have a place in future warfare, or will drones eventually render it obsolete? Let us know your thoughts!