Embraer hands over first modernised A-1M to Brazil

A-1M subsonic attack aircraft - photo Brazilian air force

Sept. 5, 2013 by  Dave Majumdar – FG

Washington DC - Embraer has delivered the first modernised A-1M subsonic attack aircraft to the Brazilian air force in Gavião Peixoto.

"The A-1 fighter jets are fundamental elements for the defence of Brazil, including its territorial coastal waters," says Gen Juniti Saito, the service's commander. "We have been very successful in using this aircraft on such highly complex operations as the Cruzex and Red Flag exercises. Its modernisation presents a big gain in capability," he adds.

The A-1M programme provides for the upgrade of 43 AMX jets, which were originally developed under a joint Italian-Brazilian venture. So far, 16 aircraft have been inducted into Embraer's facilities for refurbishment.

The modernisation package includes new navigation systems, weapons, oxygen generators, multimode radar and electronic countermeasures. The new hardware is coupled with structural refurbishment that will extend the type's life until 2025