The US State Department has cleared a potential $100-million sale to support Lebanon’s A-29 Super Tucano fleet.
The deal covers maintenance, spare parts, engine components, and ground support equipment.
It also includes software updates and logistics.
Sierra Nevada Corporation, which collaborates with Embraer on the A-29, will serve as the primary contractor for the sale.
With the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) deployed in the south to enforce the November 2024 ceasefire, the A-29 sustainment package aims to support their operations on the ground.
According to the US government, maintaining the aircraft will help the LAF continue its use in close air support and manned intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
It also noted that the proposed sale aligns with its foreign policy and security goals by strengthening the defense capabilities of a regional partner considered a key player in promoting stability and economic development in the Middle East.
A-29 Super Tucano
The A-29 Super Tucano is a light attack and reconnaissance aircraft operated by 20 air forces worldwide.
It measures 11.38 meters (37.3 feet) long with a wingspan of 11.14 meters (36.5 feet).
At sea level, it can climb at a rate of 3,240 feet (987 meters) per minute, reaching 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) in about three minutes, and can fly at altitudes up to 35,000 feet (10,668 meters).
Tensions in Lebanon
Since the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, which followed over a year of hostilities and two months of intense fighting, the Lebanese Armed Forces has been working to reassert control in the south.
Despite the deal, tensions remain high.
Israel is maintaining control of five strategic positions, and continues to carry out strikes against what it claims are Hezbollah targets, frequently hitting southern Lebanon and occasionally reaching the capital, Beirut.
