Philippines confirms plans to acquire 18 more A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft

A-29B Super Tucano aircraft bound to the Philippines, as seen in Embraer's facility in Sao Paolo, Brazil. Photo c/o Embraer.

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) confirmed in their official publication that they are looking have at least 24 A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft in their fleet.

According to the PAF’s Flight Path publication, the goal is for the service to acquire 12 more Super Tucano aircraft by 2022, and 6 more aircraft afterwards to reach a total of 24 Super Tucanos by 2024. 

Currently the PAF’s 15th Strike Wing operates 6 A-29B Super Tucano aircraft delivered by Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer S.A. under a PHP5 billion (US$104 million) deal.

According to Filipino defense page MaxDefense Philippines, the PAF intends to replace its existing and ageing fixed wing light attack aircraft operated by 2 squadrons, which currently operate the Rockwell OV-10A/C Bronco and the Aermacchi SF-260TP aircraft.

Both the OV-10 and SF-260 are in need of immediate replacement due to their advanced age and obsolescence. 

No contract has been confirmed yet for additional aircraft, but Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana previously mentioned of working with their Brazilian counterparts and Embraer for the potential acquisition of additional aircraft.

The A-29B Super Tucano is a turboprop-powered light attack aircraft and is currently in service with more than a dozen air arms globally. It is equipped with two internal 12.7mm heavy machine guns in its wings, and can be armed with a variety of standard and smart munitions, and missiles.




[1] Philippine Air Force Flight Path official publication
[2] MaxDefense Philippines
[3] Philippine Defense Resource