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 Sierra Nevada Corporation
Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), headquartered in Sparks, Nevada, delivers technology and teams designed to connect and protect, through innovative solutions in aircraft, aerospace, electronics, cyber and avionics. With a track record of success spanning five decades, SNC has been honored as one of America’s fastest-growing private companies, “The Top Woman-owned Federal Contractor in the U.S.,” and is among “The World’s Top 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space.” SNC and its subsidiaries and affiliates operate under the leadership of President Eren Ozmen and CEO Fatih Ozmen, with a workforce of more than 3,000 personnel in 33 locations in 18 U.S. states, England, Germany and Turkey.
For more information on SNC visit www.sncorp.com and follow us at Facebook/Sierra Nevada Corporation. Sierra Nevada Corporation and SNC are trademarks of Sierra Nevada Corporation.
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.