Embraer and Valkyrie Aero are giving the A-29 Super Tucano a high-tech edge against hostile drones, turning the aircraft into a smarter, more lethal counter-drone platform.
At the heart of the upgrade is Valkyrie’s Gunslinger suite, which adds real-time tactical decision-making to support the “Find, Fix, Finish” cycle against aerial threats.
The system enhances existing onboard sensors and offers a scalable solution to keep pace with evolving drone tactics.
The goal of the upgrade is to equip the A-29 with effective, low-cost counter-drone capabilities that leverage its tandem cockpit, long loiter time, and agility.
“Valkyrie is excited to partner with Embraer to deliver Gunslinger on the A-29 platform for customers worldwide,” said Chris Turner, senior vice president at Valkyrie Aero.
“Gunslinger is born from the immediate needs of the frontline warfighter, whom Valkyrie trains and engages with every day.”
Inside A-29 Super Tucano
Brazil’s Super Tucano aircraft measures 11.4 meters (37 feet) long and spans 11 meters (36 feet).
It cruises at 280 knots (322 miles/518 kilometers per hour) with a maximum range of 1,550 nautical miles (1,783 miles/2,870 kilometers per hour) using three external tanks.
Weighing 3,200 kilograms (7,055 pounds) empty, the aircraft can take off at up to 5,400 kilograms (11,905 pounds) and carry more than 1,500 kilograms (3,306 pounds) of payload.
Its design supports high-altitude operations and combat training, with a low thermal, audible, and visual signature.
Survivability is built in: armor protects against 0.5-inch and 7.62mm rounds, letting pilots operate safely in contested environments.
