Embraer is set to enhance Panama’s aerial defense capabilities by providing four Super Tucano aircraft to the National Air and Naval Service. These aircraft will serve as pivotal platforms for surveillance and protection of the nation’s territory, reinforcing Panama’s efforts to combat illicit activities and improve border security.
The Super Tucano aircraft will be utilized for various missions, including reconnaissance operations and advanced pilot training. Bosco da Costa Junior, the President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, highlighted the significance of the Super Tucano, stating, “The Super Tucano is a world leader in its category and will certainly be able to leverage the surveillance, reconnaissance, and protection capabilities of Panamanian territory.” His remarks emphasize the aircraft’s role in enhancing national security and sovereignty.
With Panama officially adopting the Super Tucano, it becomes the eighth country in Latin America to integrate this advanced platform into its fleet, joining the ranks of Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay, and the Dominican Republic. This growing list underscores the global recognition of the Super Tucano as a reliable multi-mission aircraft within defense programs in the region.
Da Costa Junior also expressed confidence in Embraer’s partnership with Panama, asserting, “Embraer is a strong ally in supporting Panama’s mission to maintain national sovereignty and ensure that its society has its natural wealth and rights preserved.” This collaboration indicates a strategic move to bolster the nation’s defense posture amid challenges such as drug trafficking and illegal immigration.
The Super Tucano is known for its adaptability, having been selected by 20 air forces worldwide. With a length of 11.38 meters (37.3 feet) and a wingspan of 11.14 meters (36.5 feet), the aircraft boasts impressive operational capabilities. It can ascend at a rate of 3,240 feet (987 meters) per minute at sea level and reach an altitude of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) in approximately three minutes, with a maximum operational altitude of 35,000 feet (10,668 meters).
The aircraft’s robust avionics system is integrated with a rugged airframe, enabling it to function from unpaved runways, which is crucial for operations in remote areas. Furthermore, the Super Tucano is equipped with advanced communications technology to ensure effective coordination among command centers, ground troops, and attack aircraft during missions.
With the inclusion of state-of-the-art optical sensors, the Super Tucano ensures precise target identification and data acquisition even in challenging conditions such as low-light environments or high altitudes. Additionally, the aircraft features a machine gun that provides essential self-defense capabilities, making it suitable for reconnaissance and combat missions.
The introduction of the Super Tucano into Panama’s defense framework marks a significant step towards enhancing the country’s aerial capabilities, ensuring better protection of its borders and a stronger response against illicit activities.
