Super Tucano Light Attack Aircraft Specs

Introduction to the Super Tucano

The Super Tucano is a lightweight, single-engine turboprop aircraft designed for counter-insurgency operations, border patrol, and light attack missions. Developed by the Brazilian company Embraer, the Super Tucano is an advanced version of the Embraer EMB 312 Tucano, with improved capabilities and features. In this article, we will delve into the specs and capabilities of the Super Tucano, exploring its design, performance, and operational uses.

Design and Features

The Super Tucano is designed with a sturdy airframe and a single Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68 turboprop engine, which provides a maximum power output of 1,600 horsepower. The aircraft features a three-bladed propeller and has a maximum takeoff weight of 7,257 pounds. The Super Tucano has a length of 39 feet 3 inches and a wingspan of 36 feet 6 inches. The aircraft’s design emphasizes maneuverability and stability, making it an ideal platform for close air support and reconnaissance missions.

Performance and Capabilities

The Super Tucano has a maximum speed of 567 kilometers per hour and a cruise speed of 520 kilometers per hour. The aircraft has a service ceiling of 35,000 feet and a range of 2,000 nautical miles. The Super Tucano is equipped with a state-of-the-art avionics system, including a head-up display, a mission computer, and a communication system. The aircraft can be armed with a variety of weapons, including machine guns, rockets, and bombs.

Operational Uses

The Super Tucano has been used by several countries for counter-insurgency and light attack missions. The aircraft has seen combat in various parts of the world, including Afghanistan and Iraq. The Super Tucano has also been used for border patrol and reconnaissance missions, providing a cost-effective and efficient solution for airborne surveillance. The aircraft’s advanced avionics system and weapon capabilities make it an attractive option for countries looking to enhance their military capabilities.

Comparison with Other Aircraft

The Super Tucano is often compared to other light attack aircraft, such as the A-29 Super Tucano and the AT-6 Wolverine. While these aircraft share similar characteristics, the Super Tucano stands out for its advanced avionics system and improved performance. The following table highlights the key differences between these aircraft:

Aircraft	Length	Wingspan	Maximum Speed	Service Ceiling
Super Tucano	39 feet 3 inches	36 feet 6 inches	567 km/h	35,000 feet
A-29 Super Tucano	39 feet 3 inches	36 feet 6 inches	567 km/h	35,000 feet
AT-6 Wolverine	41 feet 4 inches	38 feet 6 inches	555 km/h	30,000 feet

🚀 Note: The specifications listed in this table are subject to change and may not reflect the current configuration of these aircraft.

Future Developments and Upgrades

The Super Tucano is continuously being upgraded and improved, with new avionics systems and weapon capabilities being developed. The aircraft’s advanced design and flexibility make it an attractive option for countries looking to enhance their military capabilities. As the global security landscape continues to evolve, the Super Tucano is likely to remain a popular choice for counter-insurgency and light attack missions.

In summary, the Super Tucano is a highly capable and versatile aircraft, with a range of features and capabilities that make it an ideal platform for close air support and reconnaissance missions. Its advanced avionics system and weapon capabilities make it an attractive option for countries looking to enhance their military capabilities. As the global security landscape continues to evolve, the Super Tucano is likely to remain a popular choice for counter-insurgency and light attack missions.