SPARKS, Nev., November 08, 2015 – The Republic of Lebanon today confirmed the acquisition of six A-29 Super Tucano turboprop aircraft from Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) and Embraer Defense & Security. The contract also includes a complete training system for Lebanese Air Force pilots and mechanics. The U.S. State Department approved the sale in June.
The aircraft sale is part of a larger, more comprehensive package, including infrastructure improvements, that will be fulfilled by other parties not involved in the SNC/Embraer partnership. The Super Tucano is currently used by 10 Air Forces around the world, and the planes for this sale will be built in the United States at Embraer’s Jacksonville, Florida, facility.
“The selection of the A-29 by the Lebanese Air Force is a great testament to the superiority of the Super Tucano and its ability to meet the challenges of the operating theater in the Middle East,” said Jackson Schneider, president and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. “The Super Tucano is the best and most capable aircraft in the market with a proven record of success with Air Forces around the world.”
The A-29 Super Tucano is a durable, versatile and powerful turboprop aircraft capable of carrying out a wide range of light air support (LAS) missions, even operating from unimproved runways. Due to its original concept design, high speed and excellent maneuverability, the Super Tucano is the only aircraft in its class to present superb cockpit visibility, pressurized cockpit, extremely high efficiency operations and low vulnerability in the LAS role. The blend of advanced, robust and redundant systems allows the aircraft to outmaneuver and outperform nearly any competitor in its class across versatile mission profiles, including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), convoy escort, and close air support.
“We are excited at the opportunity to provide Lebanon with these aircraft, which are proving to be an innovative and cost-effective solution for demanding military organizations around the world. It is ideal for the missions and operational environment faced by Lebanon and a host of other nations. We look forward to helping the Lebanese add exceptional multi-mission capability to their air force through use of the A-29 Super Tucano,” said Taco Gilbert, vice president of business development for SNC’s ISR business area.
After more than 10 years in service, the Super Tucano has gained an excellent performance record, earning Embraer more than 230 firm orders. With more than 140 certified load configurations, it is equipped with advanced electronics, electro-optical/infrared sensors, and night vision capability, as well as secure radio systems with data links and unrivalled munitions capacity.
About Embraer Defense & Security
Leader in the aerospace and defense industry of Latin America, Embraer Defense & Security offers a complete line of integrated solutions such as C4I (Command, Control, Communication, Computers and Intelligence Center) applications, leading edge technologies in the production of radars, advanced information and communication systems, integrated systems for border monitoring and surveillance, as well as military and government transportation aircraft. With a growing presence on the global market, Embraer Defense & Security products are present in more than 60 countries.
About SNC
SNC is a trusted global leader in aerospace and national security. Our innovative solutions enable connected protection through command, control and communications systems, as well as ISR, cyber, electromagnetic spectrum management, and other high capabilities for national security systems across all domains – sea, land, air, space and cyber. As a longstanding leader in defense technology, SNC is at the optimum intersection of commercial, defense and non-traditional contractors. We are one of the only privately owned mid-tier A&D contractors and we pride ourselves on our ability to invest early and often to ensure mission success on or ahead of schedule. It's part of our mission to always stay one step ahead; working on solutions today to solve the problems of tomorrow. Founded in 1963, SNC is owned by Chairwoman Eren Ozmen and CEO Fatih Ozmen.