Article Posted on : - Jun 16, 2015

The A-29 Super Tucano. An Embraer photo

PARIS (BNS): Brazilian aircraft maker Embraer has signed a contract with the Republic of Mali for supplying six A-29 Super Tucano light attack and advanced training turboprop aircraft.

The deal, inked at the ongoing Paris Air Show on Monday in the presence of Defence Minister of Mali, Tieman Coulibaly, includes logistic support for the operation of the jets as well as providing a training system for pilots and mechanics of the Mali Air Force.

The A-29 Super Tucano will be deployed for advanced training, border surveillance, and internal security missions, Embraer said.

"With this contract, we are adding another important customer in Africa, where several countries already operate the Super Tucano," said Jackson Schneider, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.

"We are quite satisfied with the way our military and defence cooperation with the Federal Republic of Brazil is developing. As for the Super Tucano, we all know how this aircraft is appreciated worldwide for its versatility and simplicity. To put it short, I am happy to sign this contract today," Defence Minister Tieman Coulibaly said.

The A-29 Super Tucano light attack/advanced training aircraft, designed to carry out a wide range of missions, including close air support and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, is currently used by ten air forces in three continents, according Embraer.