Paraguay Modernizes Air Force with Delivery of A-29 Super Tucano Aircraft

The Paraguayan Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Paraguaya, FAP) has taken delivery of four Embraer A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, marking the country’s most significant defence acquisition in nearly four decades. The delivery ceremony, held June 30, 2025, at Silvio Pettirossi Air Force Base near Asunción, was attended by Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña, Vice President Pedro Alliana, Minister of National Defense Óscar González, and senior air force officials.

Developed for 21st-century missions, the A-29 Super Tucano is a proven light attack and advanced training platform. It has been selected by 22 air forces worldwide, with more than 290 units ordered to date and over 600,000 flight hours accumulated globally.

Air General Júlio Fullaondo, Commander of the Paraguayan Air Force, emphasized the significance of the acquisition:

“The arrival of these aircraft represents much more than a logistical addition: it is a firm step towards modernizing our operational capabilities. The A-29 Super Tucanos, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, will increase our effectiveness in airspace surveillance and enhance our response to emerging challenges. This investment guarantees our security, national sovereignty, and sustainable development.”

Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, added:

“We are delighted to deliver the first four A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, out of a total of six, to the Paraguayan Air Force. The A-29 is a benchmark in the market due to its versatility, operational flexibility, and performance in various mission profiles.”

The A-29 Super Tucano is a combat-proven, cost-effective aircraft capable of performing a wide range of missions, including close air support (CAS), air interdiction, armed reconnaissance, joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) training, and advanced pilot instruction. It is renowned for its ability to operate from unpaved runways in austere environments with limited infrastructure, making it especially suitable for Paraguay’s diverse terrain and border regions.

Technologically, the Super Tucano features a modern human-machine interface (HMI), precise targeting and weapons systems, a comprehensive communications suite, and robust avionics. Its design reduces maintenance requirements while offering high reliability and low life-cycle costs — key factors for air forces seeking sustainable modernization solutions.

With this delivery, Paraguay joins a growing community of A-29 operators across Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, further cementing Embraer’s position as a leader in light attack and advanced trainer aircraft for air forces worldwide.

The remaining two Super Tucanos are expected to be delivered later this year, completing Paraguay’s planned fleet of six A-29s, which will play a central role in securing national airspace and supporting regional stability.