Ghana orders Embraer's light attack aircraft

PARIS, June 19 (UPI) -- The Ministry of Defense of Ghana has signed a contract for procurement of five A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft from Brazil's Embraer Defense & Security.

The contract, which includes provisions for logistics support and establishment of an in-country training system for pilots and mechanics, was signed this week at the Paris Air Show.

The deal is the second this week by Embraer for the A-29 turboprop aircraft, which can also function as an advanced trainer. Mali ordered a dozen of the planes.

"We are pleased to welcome Ghana Air Force as a new operator of the Super Tucano, an aircraft that is already consolidated in the global market, expanding our presence in Africa", said Jackson Schneider, president of Embraer Defense & Security. "We are confident that, with this acquisition, the Air Force of Ghana will be equipped with the most appropriate and proven solution to attend its operational needs."

The A-29 Super Tucano is currently used by air forces on three continents.

Ghana will use the aircraft for training, border surveillance and internal security missions.

Embraer said the contract for the aircraft will come into effect once certain conditions have been fulfilled. The conditions, which were not disclosed, are expected to be fulfilled during the second half of this year.