MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Orsi and Lacalle Pou reunite at Uruguayan Air Force event marking arrival of A-29 Super Tucanos

Orsi led the ribbon-cutting and handed part of the ribbon to Lacalle Pou, reflecting that the acquisition was launched under the previous administration. Photo: Uruguay's Defense Ministry

Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi and former president Luis Lacalle Pou attended an Air Force ceremony at Base Aérea No. 1 (Route 101, Canelones) for the presentation of the first A-29 Super Tucano aircraft entering service with the Uruguayan Air Force (FAU). Defence Minister Sandra Lazo and former defence minister—now senator—Javier García were also present.

The encounter came against the backdrop of political friction between the government and the opposition over the Cardama case—the cancelled contract for offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) for the Navy—though both leaders kept a formal, institutional tone during the military event.

The ceremony focused on the first two aircraft of a six-plane acquisition agreed in late 2024 with Brazil’s Embraer. Uruguay’s Defence Ministry previously said the deal represents a US$104 million investment and includes a broader package—covering mission equipment and a flight simulator—within a wider capability renewal plan and airspace control agenda.

“The Super Tucano is the world leader in its category, having been selected by 22 air forces around the
world and accumulating more than 600,000 flight hours,” Embraer said. Photo: Uruguayan Defense Ministry

In statements carried by regional outlets citing Embraer’s communications, the manufacturer said delivery of the first pair marks the start of a phased incorporation aimed at strengthening border surveillance and airspace protection tasks.

Orsi led the ribbon-cutting and handed part of the ribbon to Lacalle Pou, reflecting that the acquisition was launched under the previous administration. Organisers also presented miniature replicas of the aircraft to officials attending the event.

The FAU has framed the Super Tucano arrival as a significant operational and technological upgrade. The government has linked the purchase to modernising the armed forces and bolstering surveillance capabilities amid challenges such as illicit trafficking.