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![A-29](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/2024-08/a-29_super_tucano_forca_aerea_uruguai.jpg?itok=1u9BG8Xx)
A rendering of the A-29 with Uruguayan Air Force markings.
Embraer says Uruguay has become the latest South American country to sign up to operate its A-29 Super Tucano light-attack aircraft.
Uruguay signed a contract for one A-29 for delivery in 2025, with options to take five more of the turboprop-powered aircraft.
The acquisition marks Uruguay's first purchase of combat aircraft since 1981, Commander in Chief of the Uruguayan Air Force Gen. Luis H. De León said in a statement.
Uruguay will become the sixth South American nation to operate the aircraft type. Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Paraguay are already A-29 customers.
Uruguayan Foreign Minister Omar Paganini said in a statement that his country is buying the aircraft to bolster airspace surveillance and threat response capabilities.
The A-29 has enjoyed commercial success, often with countries that cannot afford more expensive aircraft. The Lebanese Air Force, for instance, which already operates the type, is interested in acquiring more.