The Ghana Air Force (GAF) has witnessed a demonstration of the A-29 Super Tucano, a light attack, reconnaissance and trainer aircraft developed by Embraer and the Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC). The event, which took place at Air Force Base Accra on 19 February 2024, aimed to highlight the capabilities and benefits of the Super Tucano for the GAF, which has expressed interest in acquiring the type for several years.
The demonstration featured a static and flying display of the Super Tucano (PT-ZTU), accompanied by various GAF aircraft, such as Mi-171 and Z-9 helicopters and K-8 jet trainers. The Super Tucano performed various maneuvers and simulated attacks, showcasing its agility, speed, accuracy and versatility.
The GAF leadership and the Minister for Defence, Dominic Nitiwul, attended the event and praised the performance of the Super Tucano. The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal Frederick Asare Kwasi Bekoe, said that the Super Tucano was a strategic offensive platform that could enhance the GAF’s deterrent and offensive posture within the sub-region, especially in the face of increasing terrorism threats. He expressed his hope that the Super Tucano would be considered high on the GAF’s decision making for acquisition.
The Minister for Defence, Dominic Nitiwul, echoed the CAS’s sentiments and emphasised the importance of prioritising counter-terrorism efforts. He said that the Super Tucano was a suitable aircraft to augment the GAF’s capabilities in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism, as well as in other missions such as aerial surveillance and interception.
The Super Tucano is a proven and cost-effective aircraft that has been ordered by several African countries, including Angola, Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Nigeria. It can operate in austere environments and perform a wide range of missions, from light attack to advanced training. It is equipped with a variety of sensors and equipment, including an electro-optical/infrared system with laser designator, night vision goggles, secure communications and data-link package. It can carry a maximum external load of 1 550 kilograms (3 420 lb) of weapons, including gun pods, bombs, rocket pods, and air-to-air missiles.
The GAF has been considering acquiring the Super Tucano since 2015, when it announced an order for five units, but the contract never materialised. The GAF has also explored other options, such as the L-39NG light combat jet from Aero Vodochody.
The purchase had been awaiting approval since 2 August 2021, the L-39NG is meant to complement the Air Force small fleet comprising of four Hongdu K-8 jet trainer aircraft acquired from China, Diamond surveillance aircraft, and a handful of helicopters.
