A-29 chosen for USAF assessment

May 16 (UPI) -- The A-29 light attack aircraft from the Sierra Nevada Corporation and Embraer is participating in a U.S. Air Force capability assessment.

The assessment known as AO-X, or Capability Assessment of Non-Developmental Light Attack Platforms, will be held in New Mexico in July to evaluate the benefits of the USAF acquiring a new, low-cost, non-developmental light attack aircraft for close air support and cost-effective pilot training.

The Air Force will also assess light attack platforms for seasoning of trained pilots.

"SNC is proud to participate in the USAF's effort to enhance warfighter support and bring greater value and affordability to the American taxpayer," said Taco Gilbert, senior vice president for SNC´s Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance business area. "Partnering with Embraer, we're proud to present the U.S.-made, combat-proven A-29 as part of this experiment."

The A-29 Super Tucano, a turboprop aircraft, is made in Florida and has been certified by the Air Force for fighter and ISR, or intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance, missions in Afghanistan and elsewhere.