Propeller driven ground attack aircraft offer cost effective solution in air-superiority environments. Platforms propelled by piston or turborpop engines can be equipped with weapons in different types and diameters.
The U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) procured an additional A-29 Super Tucano for CAA (Combat Aviation Advisor) missions. Single aircraft to be acquired under the agreement, which signed with Sierra Nevada Corporation, will be the third platform that the US Air Force (USAF) will receive on this model. It was stated that all the A-29s will be delivered to the user in 2021.
Powered by a 1,300 HP PT-6A-68A turboprop engine, the A-29 Super Tucanos can carry 1,150 kilograms payload at five points. Platforms that can be equipped with machine guns, freefall bombs, rockets and different types of missiles can reach 2,700 km maximum range.
