New Tactics, Techniques Use Existing Sensors, Weapons To Expand Capabilities

Embraer has revealed an innovative operational capability for its A-29 Super Tucano turboprop light attack aircraft that transforms it into a dedicated anti-drone platform to address the growing demand for an affordable means to defeat unmanned aerial systems.

Embraer says the new concept leverages the existing sensors and weapons already integrated into the A-29 and blends them with new and updated tactics, techniques, and procedures. The suite of enhancements is designed to allow current and future A-29 operators to add anti-UAS capability and tasks to mission profiles without the need for major structural mods or avionics refits.

The company says the new configuration utilizes dedicated datalinks to receive initial targeting information and cue the aircraft toward suspected UAS tracks. When the aircraft is within proximity, the electro-optical/infrared sensor provides identification, tracking, and laser designation. The aircraft can then deploy laser-guided rockets to engage it or its wing-mount 0.50 caliber guns to visually engage the drones.

Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security said, “We continue to expand the A-29’s capabilities to address the most recent challenges faced by many nations worldwide. The continued challenges in modern warfare and the recent conflicts worldwide have shown the urgent need for solutions to fight drones. The A-29 is the ideal tool to counter UAS effectively and at low cost, adding to the aircraft’s already extensive mission set that includes close air support, armed reconnaissance, advanced training, and many others.”

The A-29’s relatively slow speed provides an advantage in conducting anti-drone missions, since many small recon or loitering drones fly slowly at low altitudes and are challenging targets for high-performance fighter jets. Also, the fighters are equipped with expensive air-to-air missiles that quickly become prohibitively expensive when facing larger swarms of cheap drones such as Iran’s Shahed models.

FMI:  www.embraer.com/