Embraer Defense & Security has announced a new mission configuration for its A-29 Super Tucano, expanding the light attack turboprop’s role to include counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS). The initiative aims to provide nations with a cost-effective and rapidly deployable solution to the growing threat posed by drones in modern conflicts.
The new operational concept (CONOPS) leverages the aircraft’s existing rugged design and proven sensor-weapon suite. The reconfiguration integrates specific datalinks to receive target coordinates, utilizes the aircraft’s Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor for tracking and laser designation, and employs onboard weapons like laser-guided rockets and .50 caliber machine guns to neutralize hostile drones. This approach allows current and future operators to add C-UAS to the A-29’s mission set without requiring a costly, dedicated new platform.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, emphasized that global conflicts have created an urgent need for practical anti-drone solutions. The A-29, with over 600,000 flight hours and service in 22 air forces, is presented as an ideal, low-cost tool for this role. The aircraft is renowned for its ability to operate from unimproved airstrips and perform a wide range of missions, including close air support, armed reconnaissance, and advanced training. Its operational flexibility and low life-cycle cost are central to its value proposition for nations seeking to enhance their air defense against unmanned threats.
