View source for Embraer EMB 312 Tucano

{{Short description|Brazilian Turboprop trainer & light attack aircraft}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2020}}
{{Infobox aircraft
| name = EMB 312 Tucano
| image = File:Peru Air Force - Embraer T-27 Tucano - Lofting.jpg
| caption = A [[Embraer EMB 312 Tucano#Peru|Peruvian]] AT-27
| type = [[Trainer aircraft|Trainer]] and light [[attack aircraft]]
| national_origin = Brazil
| manufacturer = [[Embraer]]
| first_flight = 16 August 1980
| introduction = September 1983
| retired = 
| status = In Service
| primary_user = [[Brazilian Air Force]]
| more_users = [[Egyptian Air Force]] <br> [[Argentine Air Force]] <br> [[Peruvian Air Force]] 
| produced = 1980–1996<ref name=contador />
| number_built = 637<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www2.fab.mil.br/afa/index.php/aeronaves/345-t-27-emb-312-tucano-fab-1303|title= T-27 - TUCANO - FAB 1303 |publisher=Brazilian Air Force Academy| access-date=28 January 2025}}</ref>
| unit cost = T-27: US$900,000 (1981)<ref name=War4/>
| developed_from = 
| variants = [[Short Tucano]]
| developed_into = [[Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano]]
}}

The '''Embraer EMB 312 Tucano''' (English: ''[[Toucan]]'') is a [[Monoplane#Low|low-wing]], [[tandem]]-seat, single-[[turboprop]], basic [[trainer (aircraft)|trainer]] and light [[attack aircraft]] developed and produced by [[Embraer]] in [[Brazil]]. The [[Brazilian Air Force]] sponsored the EMB-312 project at the end of 1978. Design and development work began in 1979 on a low-cost, relatively simple, new basic trainer with innovative features which eventually became the international standard for basic training aircraft.<ref name=centro>{{cite web |url=http://www.centrohistoricoembraer.com.br/en-US/HistoriaAeronaves/Pages/EMB-312-Tucano.aspx |title=EMB 312 Tucano |publisher=Embraer Historical Center |access-date=15 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120723022713/http://www.centrohistoricoembraer.com.br/en-US/HistoriaAeronaves/Pages/EMB-312-Tucano.aspx |archive-date=23 July 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> The [[prototype]] first flew in 1980, and initial production units were delivered in 1983.<ref name=centro/>

Production was initially supported by a local order for 118 aircraft, with options for an additional 50 units in October 1980. It was later matched by an Egyptian licence-produced purchase in 1993 and subsequently by a variant known as the [[Short Tucano]], which was licence-produced in the [[United Kingdom]].<ref name=Todd>{{cite book|last1=Todd |first1=Daniel |last2=Simpson |first2=Jamie |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AIgOAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA246|title=The World Aircraft Industry |page=246 |publisher=Croom Helm |location=Surry Hills, Australia |isbn=0-7099-2486-0 |date=30 March 1986}}</ref> The Tucano made inroads into the military trainer arena and became one of Embraer's first international marketing successes. A total of 637 units were produced (477 by Embraer and 160 by [[Short Brothers]]), flying in 18 air forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www2.fab.mil.br/afa/index.php/aeronaves/345-t-27-emb-312-tucano-fab-1303|title= T-27 - TUCANO - FAB 1303 |publisher=Brazilian Air Force Academy| access-date=28 January 2025}}</ref>

==Development==

===Background===
The [[Brazilian military government]] considered aircraft strategic equipment, and in an effort to reduce dependency from foreign companies, the state-owned Embraer was established in 1969.<ref>{{cite book |last=Goldstein |first=Andrea |editor-last=Altimir |editor-first=Oscar |chapter=Embraer: From national champion to global player |chapter-url=http://www.cepal.org/publicaciones/xml/5/19965/lcg2180i-goldstein.pdf |title=CEPAL Review No. 77 |pages=99–100 |publisher=United Nations |year=2002 |isbn=92-1-121408-4 |access-date=1 October 2012 |archive-date=21 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150621165710/http://www.cepal.org/publicaciones/xml/5/19965/lcg2180i-goldstein.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> A production license to assemble the [[MB.326]] was acquired in 1970 to familiarize the company with military design,<ref name=Todd/> and in 1973, the [[Embraer EMB 110 Bandeirante]] was introduced with two Pratt & Whitney PT6A engines.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pwc.ca/en/engines/pt6a |title=PT6A: More Than a Legend |publisher=Pratt & Whitney Canada |access-date=1 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706012059/http://www.pwc.ca/en/engines/pt6a |archive-date=6 July 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref>

After all-jet training program trials during the 1950s, a variety of [[Propeller (aircraft)|propeller-driven aircraft]] were used for pilot training during the 1960s and 1970s.<ref>Warwick and Gaines (1983), p 30</ref> In the 1970s, oil prices rapidly increased with the price of a crude oil barrel having risen from $3 in 1973 to $36 by 1980,<ref>{{cite book|last=Singer |first=Fred |editor-last= Sternlight  |editor-first=David  |chapter=Oil Policy in a Changing Market|chapter-url=http://www.annualreviews.org/doi/abs/10.1146/annurev.eg.12.110187.002305 |title= Annual Review of Energy  |volume=12|issue=1 |pages=445–470 |publisher=Annual Reviews |location=Palo Alto, USA |doi=10.1146/annurev.eg.12.110187.002305 |publication-date=November 1987 |isbn=978-0-8243-2312-7}}</ref> deflating the Brazilian economy. At that time, the Brazilian Air Force operated the [[Teledyne CAE J69|J69]]-powerered [[Cessna T-37 Tweet|Cessna T-37C]],<ref name=W&G/> which was a 1950s design and following the [[1970s energy crisis]], became expensive to operate.<ref>Taylor 1999, p. 293</ref> In 1977, the Brazilian Air Force expressed a desire to replace the T-37,<ref name=Fricker7/> specifying that the replacement would need to be cheap to operate, designed to closely imitate the characteristics of jet aircraft<ref>{{cite book|last=Frédriksen |first=John |title=International warbirds: an illustrated guide to world military aircraft, 1914–2000 |url=https://archive.org/details/internationalwar00fred_249 |url-access=limited |page=[https://archive.org/details/internationalwar00fred_249/page/n50 102] |publisher=ABC-CLIO |year=2001 |isbn=1-57607-364-5}}</ref> and should have ejection seats.<ref name=Fricker7/>

During the 1970s the Brazilian Air Force operated over 100 piston-powered [[Neiva Universal]] basic trainers.<ref>Swanborough (1980), p. 290</ref> Encouraged to undertake a follow-on project known as "Universal II", [[Indústria Aeronáutica Neiva]] rolled out the prototype N621A (YT-25A) in 1975 with an extended body, four hard points,<ref name=Swan79/> and the more powerful 400&nbsp;hp Lycoming IO-720-A1A engine which drove a three-bladed [[Hartzell Propeller|Hartzell]] propeller.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.musal.aer.mil.br/universal.htm |title=NEIVA N621A (YT-25A) "Universal II" |publisher=Brazilian Aerospace Museum |access-date=8 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110824070928/http://www.musal.aer.mil.br/universal.htm |archive-date=24 August 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> The YT-25B prototype, a further modified version with six external hard points,<ref name=War4>{{cite journal |last=Warwick |first=Graham |editor-last=Mason |editor-first=David |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1981/1981%20-%202178.html |title=The combat trainer market |journal=Flight International |issue=3785 |volume=120 |page=26 |publication-date=4 July 1981 |publisher=I.P.C. Transport Press |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=16 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141101221501/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1981/1981%20-%202178.html |archive-date=1 November 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> flew on 22 October 1978,<ref name=Swan79>{{cite journal|last=Swanborough |first=Gordon |editor-last=Green |editor-first=William |title=Aircraft and Industry |journal=Air International |issue=1 |volume=16 |page=5 |publication-date=January 1979 |publisher=Fine Scroll |location=Bromley, UK |issn=0306-5634}}</ref> but it did not meet requirements since the type was slower and smaller, and had side-by-side seats and a rear jump seat.<ref name=WG12>Warwick and Gaines (1983), p&nbsp;31–32</ref> Two years later, the company was acquired by Embraer.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Aircraft-Upgrades/Neiva-Industria-Aeronautica-Neiva-SA-Brazil.html |title=Neiva (Industria Aeronautica Neiva SA) (Brazil), Contractors |publisher=Janes Infor Group |date=20 March 2009 |access-date=5 October 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126161739/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Aircraft-Upgrades/Neiva-Industria-Aeronautica-Neiva-SA-Brazil.html |archive-date=26 January 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1973, [[Hungarian Brazilians|hungarian-brazilian]] designer Joseph Kovács moved from Neiva to Embraer,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bv.fapesp.br/namidia/noticia/21713/ze-kovacs-fazedor-avioes/ |last=Alencar |first=José |title=Zé Kovács, o fazedor de aviões |language=pt |work=Gazeta Mercantil |location=São Paulo |date=25 March 1998 |page=1 |issn=0102-0285 |access-date=26 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201202759/http://www.bv.fapesp.br/namidia/noticia/21713/ze-kovacs-fazedor-avioes/ |archive-date=1 February 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> bringing with him a number of studies based on the Neiva Universal, including a development of the tandem-seat, turboprop Carajá.<ref name=Swan>Swanborough (1980), p.&nbsp;290–291</ref>

===Responding to requirements===
In early 1977, Embraer forwarded two proposals for the Brazilian Air Force trainer requirement: the [[Lycoming TIO-541]]-powered EMB-301 [[Trainer (aircraft)#Basic training|basic trainer]] based on the Neiva Universal and the [[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6|PT6A]]-powered<ref>{{cite journal |last=Braybrook |first=Roy |editor-last=Green |editor-first=William |title=Combat Aircraft Spectrum |publication-date=September 1978 |journal=Air International |issue=3 |volume=15 |page=121 |publisher=Fine Scroll |location=Bromley, UK |issn=0306-5634}}</ref> EMB-311 [[counter-insurgency aircraft]] based on the Carajá.<ref name=Swan/> None of the proposals was acceptable to the Air Force, but interest was expressed in the higher-performance EMB-311.<ref name=Vo1179>{{cite book|last=Volland |first=Marc|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rt4HBTxN3zEC&pg=PA79|title=Die Flugzeuge von Embraer |language=de |page=79|publication-date=1 June 2011 |publisher=Books on Demand |location=Norderstedt, Germany |isbn=978-3-8423-0004-0}}</ref> Later on that same year, the Ministry of Aeronautics ([[:pt:Ministério da Aeronáutica|Ministério da Aeronáutica]]) released a new requirement.<ref name=Vo1179/> Therefore, in January 1978, Embraer's design team, which was led by Guido Fontegalante Pessotti and included Joseph Kovacs, commenced to redesign the EMB-311 to produce the EMB-312.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Pereira |first1=Roberto |last2=Piochi |first2=Antônio |title=História da construção aeronáutica no Brasil |year=1982 |language=pt |publisher=editora Aquarius |page=319 |location=São Paulo, Brazil |oclc=10950268}}</ref>

On 6 December 1978, Embraer was officially awarded a contract to produce two prototypes and two [[airframe]]s for [[Fatigue (material)|fatigue]] tests.<ref name=air9262/> The specifications were concluded in February 1979,<ref>Fricker (1983), p.8</ref> and the main differences from the EMB-311 were the more powerful PT6A-25C engine, raised rear [[cockpit]], and the addition of [[ejection seats]].<ref name=Swan/> Eventually, the original specifications underwent a major modification, including a smaller [[fuselage]] with an upright [[cruciform tail]] instead of a swept-back tail; a more [[dome]]d canopy; extended [[Elevator (aircraft)|elevators]]; greater distance between the nosewheel and back wheel; reduction of the [[wing root]]; and an increased [[wingspan]], [[tailplane]], and landing gear.<ref name=Swan/> By late 1979, a full-scale [[mock-up]] was built with a cockpit for the evaluation of [[flight instruments]], and a subscale, [[radio-controlled]] research model was designed to evaluate the [[Free flight (model aircraft)|free-flight]] characteristics before building a full-scale prototype.<ref name=Swan/>

Within 21 months of the contract being signed, the first prototype took flight on 16 August 1980, bearing the [[Brazilian Air Force|FAB]] serial 1300.<ref name=t1999/> The second prototype flew for the first time on 10 December 1980,<ref>Taylor (1988), p. 13</ref> implementing system accessibility enhancements to trim down maintenance overheads.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Warwick |first=Graham |editor-last=Ramsden |editor-first=J. M. |title=Second EMB-312 flying |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1981/1981%20-%200296.html |journal=Flight International |issue=3743 |volume=119 |page=278 |publication-date=31 January 1981 |publisher=I.P.C. Transport Press |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=29 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927115907/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1981/1981%20-%200296.html |archive-date=27 September 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> Weapons captive flight trials resulted in the addition of a fin [[Fillet (mechanics)|fillet]] to improve [[Directional stability|lateral stability]].<ref>{{cite journal |last=Warwick |first=Graham |editor-last=Mason |editor-first=David |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1982/1982%20-%201198.html |journal=Flight International |title=Brazil tests armed trainer |page=1136 |issue=3809 |volume=121 |publisher=I.P.C. Transport Press |location=Sutton, UK |publication-date=8 May 1982 |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=6 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121111215840/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1982/1982%20-%201198.html |archive-date=11 November 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> In August 1982, the second prototype was lost during clearance trials, in which full [[rudder]] was applied when the type exceeded the maximum designed diving speed ([[V speeds#Regulatory V-speeds|Vd]]) of {{convert|539|km/h|kn mph}} by {{convert|64.7|km/h|kn mph}}, causing the [[leading edge]] skin to tear apart, followed by a −30[[g-force|g]] dive, resulting in a complete disintegration of the airframe. Both the pilot and co-pilot were able to safely eject.<ref name=Fricker7/><ref name=crash>{{cite journal |last=Warwick |first=Graham |editor-last=Mason |editor-first=David |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1983/1983%20-%200124.html |journal=Flight International |title=Embraer Traces Crash Cause |issue=3846 |volume=123 |page=172 |publisher=I.P.C. Transport Press |location=Sutton, UK |publication-date=22 January 1983 |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=6 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130717002740/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1983/1983%20-%200124.html |archive-date=17 July 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> The tailplane leading edge of the first prototype was modified,<ref name=crash/> and requirements were cleared in 1983, after which it achieved a maximum diving speed of {{convert|607.5|km/h|kn mph}}.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Warwick |first=Graham |editor-last=Mason |editor-first=David |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1983/1983%20-%201145.html |journal=Flight International |title=Tracer&nbsp;... |issue=3868 |volume=123 |page=1891 |publisher=I.P.C. Transport Press |location=Sutton, UK |publication-date=25 June 1983 |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=6 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927115921/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1983/1983%20-%201145.html |archive-date=27 September 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>

A third prototype YT-27, further modified from the previous two prototypes, received the civilian registration mark PP-ZDK, and flew on 16 August 1982.<ref>Alfonzo (2003), pp. 1–2</ref> The following month, the prototype made its international debut at the [[Farnborough Airshow]], crossing the [[Atlantic Ocean|Atlantic]] just a few days after its maiden flight. The type was designated by the Brazilian Air Force as the T-27 for training purposes and the AT-27 for ground attack in [[counter-insurgency]] missions.<ref name=alfo2/> Inspired by one of the most well-known birds in the [[Amazon rainforest]], a Brazilian Air Force [[cadet]] suggested the aircraft be named the "Tucano" ({{langx|en|[[toucan]]}}), and this was approved on 23 October 1981.<ref name=alfo2>Alfonzo (2003), p. 2</ref>

===Further development===
[[File:Shorts Tucano, Newtownards Air Show, June 1991 (01).jpg|thumb|A [[Short Tucano]] development aircraft on public display, June 1991]]

====EMB-312S====
{{main|Short Tucano}}

An agreement was signed in May 1984 between Embraer and [[Short Brothers]] to modify the EMB 312 to meet a [[Royal Air Force]] requirement for a high-performance, turbo-prop trainer to replace the [[BAC Jet Provost]] issued in 1983.<ref name=Fri87>{{cite journal|last=Fricker |first=John |editor-last=Green |editor-first=William |title=RAF Prepares for Tucano |journal=Air International|volume=32 |issue=5 |location=Bromley, UK |page=237 |publisher=Fine Scroll |publication-date=May 1987 |issn=0306-5634}}</ref> Short Brothers was responsible for the final assembly and licence-built 60% of the aircraft parts, although the wings, landing gear, and canopy were built in Brazil.<ref>{{cite report |url=http://www.fas.org/ota/reports/9122.pdf |author=U.S. Congress, Office of Technology Assessment |title=Global Arms Trade, OTA-ISC-460 |page=147 |publisher=U. S. Government Printing |publication-date=June 2001 |location=Washington, DC |isbn=978-0-16-032974-6 |access-date=24 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304053215/http://www.fas.org/ota/reports/9122.pdf |archive-date=4 March 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref>

In March 1985, after a competition with other types, the Short Tucano was declared the winner, with an order worth  £126 million for 130 aircraft and an option for a further 15.<ref name=Fri87/> As well as production for the Royal Air Force, the Short Tucano was exported to Kenya (12 Tucano Mk.51s) and Kuwait (16 Tucano Mk.52s).<ref name=air9262>{{cite journal|editor-last=Wheeler |editor-first=Berry |title=Two-seat Toucan |journal=Air International |issue=3 |volume=43 |page=162 |publisher=Key Publishing |location=Stamford, UK |publication-date=September 1992 |issn=0306-5634 }}</ref>

====EMB-312H====
[[File:EMB-312H PT-ZTW.jpg|thumb|The stretched [[EMB-312]]H (s/n 161) had a more powerful engine and was dubbed the "[[Super Tucano]]".]]
During the mid-1980s, as Embraer was working on the Short Tucano, the company also developed a new version designated the EMB-312G1. Also using a Garrett engine, the EMB-312G1 prototype flew for the first time in July 1986.<ref name=contador /> However, the Brazilian Air Force showed no interest, and the project was dropped.<ref name= contador /> Nonetheless, the lessons from recent combat use of the aircraft in Peru and Venezuela led Embraer to continue the studies. It also researched a helicopter attack version designated as the "helicopter killer" or EMB-312H.<ref name= contador /> The study was stimulated by the unsuccessful bid for the [[Joint Primary Aircraft Training System]] program, in which Embraer teamed with [[Northrop Grumman]]. In 1991, one existing demo EMB-312 aircraft was modified as proof-of-concept prototype. The aircraft featured a 1.37-m (4.49-ft) fuselage extension with the addition of sections fore and aft of the cockpit to restore its centre of gravity and stability, a strengthened airframe, cockpit pressurization, and stretched nose to house the more powerful PT6A-67R (1.424 Shp) engine.<ref name= forecast_Int /> The PT-ZTW, s/n 161, flew in September 1991.<ref name="contador" /> Two new prototypes EMB-312H with the PT6A-68A (1.250 Shp) engine were built in 1993. The second prototype PT-ZTV, s/n 454 (later PP-ZTV) flew for the first time in May 1993. It featured a reinforced wing skin developed for the model F, an improved glass cockpit, full pressurization system, electrical swing back canopy opening and zero-zero ejections seats. The third prototype PT(PP)-ZTF, s/n 455, flew in October 1993, as a twin of the s/n 454.<ref name= forecast_Int /> The EMB-312H's design later served as a starting point for the EMB-314 [[Super Tucano]], dubbed the ALX, and adopted by the Brazilian Air Force as the A-29.<ref name= forecast_Int />

==Design==
[[File:Embraer EMB 312 Tucano (cockpit) - AirExpo Muret 2007 0146 2007-05-12.jpg|left|thumb|The EMB-312F's frameless [[Aircraft canopy|canopy]] features an integral centre [[windshield]] to provide rear seat slipstream protection during an emergency.]]

Many features of the EMB-312 became standard in later basic-training aircraft designs.<ref name=flightI>{{cite journal |last=Warwick |first=Graham |editor-last=Mason |editor-first=David |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1981/1981%20-%202387.html |title=Embraer starts EMB'312 marketing |journal=Flight International |page=219 |issue=3788 |volume=120 |publication-date=25 July 1981 |publisher=I.P.C. Transport Press |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=15 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413143406/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1981/1981%20-%202387.html |archive-date=13 April 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> It was the first turboprop trainer developed from the beginning with military jet capability. A [[Martin-Baker]] Mk8L was fitted. It was Embraer's first aircraft with [[tandem]] seats designed with a raised rear seat optimized for an uninterrupted view from the rear cockpit<ref name=Fricker7>Fricker 1983, p. 7</ref> and a frameless [[bubble canopy]] for unobstructed visibility.<ref>Latham (1982), p. 180</ref> Major aircraft features include an automatic torque control system and the jet-like, single-lever throttle which combined both engine power and propeller pitch, assuring smooth and rapid acceleration and deceleration.<ref name=flightI/>

The aircraft is fitted with a retractable tricycle undercarriage with steerable nosewheels,<ref name=flightI/> allowing a fairly large{{clarify|date=December 2012}} crab angle during cross-wind landing.<ref>{{cite book |last=Sadraey |first=Mohammad |chapter=Chapter 9: Landing Gear Design |chapter-url=http://faculty.dwc.edu/sadraey/Chapter%209.%20Landing%20Gear%20Design.pdf |title=Aircraft Design: A Systems Engineering Approach |page=518 |publisher=John Wiley & Sons |location=Hoboken, NJ |publication-date=6 November 2012 |isbn=978-1-119-95340-1 |access-date=17 September 2012 |archive-date=17 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120617014731/http://faculty.dwc.edu/sadraey/Chapter%209.%20Landing%20Gear%20Design.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> The reverse [[Propeller (aircraft)#Propeller control|pitch control]] with which the aircraft is fitted allows the constant-speed mechanism to be manually overridden to reverse the blade pitch angle, thus providing excellent ground-handling characteristics, helping to slow down the plane to shorten the landing run.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Beech |first=Eric |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1989/1989%20-%200829.html |title=Making the Transition |journal=Flight International |issue=4158 |volume=135 |page=19 |publication-date=1 April 1989 |publisher=Reed Business Information |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=17 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305162748/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1989/1989%20-%200829.html |archive-date=5 March 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> This control also allows the aircraft to back up on its own during [[taxiing]].<ref>Latham (1982), p. 181</ref>

High manoeuvrability, stability at low speeds, and four underwing pylons providing for up to {{convert|1000|kg|lb|abbr=on}} of ordnance, allow the training aircraft to engage in [[tactical bombing]] campaigns in low-intensity conflict or counterinsurgency environments and in counternarcotics interceptions.<ref name=embraer_His /> The type can carry up to {{convert|694|L|USgal}} of fuel internally;<ref name=Pen1999/> additionally, two fuel tanks of {{convert|660|L|USgal}} can be fitted to underwing weapon stations for extended endurance,<ref name=W&G/> enabling up to nine flight hours.<ref name=ende>{{cite journal |last=Ende |first=Cees-Jan |editor-last=Bakker |editor-first=Goof |title=Tucano Tango |journal=Pilots & Planes Military |issue=1|page=19 |publication-date=November 2010  |location=Utrecht, The Netherlands }}</ref>

==Operational history==

===Angola===
The National Air Force of Angola (Força Aérea Nacional Angolana, [[National Air Force of Angola|FANA]]) received eight new AT-27s in 1998.<ref name=Pen2002/> Six more AT-27s were purchased four years later from the Peruvian Air Force.<ref name=Pen2002>{{cite journal |last=Penney |first=Steward |editor-last=Morrison |editor-first=Murdo |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2002/2002%20-%200698.html |title=Angola buys EMB-312s |journal=Flight International |issue=4822 |volume=161 |page=22 |publication-date=12 March 2002 |publisher=Reed Business Information |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=27 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305170100/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2002/2002%20-%200698.html |archive-date=5 March 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> The AT-27s were assigned to carry out air strikes and surveillance missions during the [[Angolan Civil War]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.fas.org/irp/world/para/docs/unita/en0607991.htm |title=Commuque No. 28/CPM/99 |publisher=Standing Committee of the Political Commission |work=Kwacha Unita Press |location=Bailundo, Angola |date=2 July 1999 |access-date=27 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160403132525/http://fas.org/irp/world/para/docs/unita/en0607991.htm |archive-date=3 April 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.wsws.org/articles/1999/nov1999/ango-n16.shtml |last=Mason |first=Barry |title=Angola: MPLA inflicts new defeats on UNITA |date=16 November 1999 |work=World Socialist Web Site |publisher=International Committee of the Fourth International |access-date=10 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121027233108/http://www.wsws.org/articles/1999/nov1999/ango-n16.shtml |archive-date=27 October 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Two further stored EMB-312 demonstrators (s/n 055 and s/n149) were delivered<ref name="IAPR22 p74">Rivas and Cicalesi (2007), p. 74.</ref> to cover aircraft losses during the war.<ref name=Pen2002/>

===Argentina===
In June 1987, the [[Argentine Air Force]] received the first batch of 15 aircraft from a total of 30 aircraft on order,<ref name="IAPR22 p74"/> and the type was assigned to replace the [[Morane-Saulnier MS.760 Paris]].<ref name=vector>{{cite web |author=Goebel, Greg |url=http://www.airvectors.net/avtucano.html |title=The Embraer Tucano & Super Tucano |publisher=Airvectors |access-date=14 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120828184442/http://www.airvectors.net/avtucano.html |archive-date=28 August 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Based at the Military Aviation School in Cordoba, the Tucanos were used as trainer aircraft for the Joint Basic Course of Military Aviation program, producing pilots for the Argentine Air Force, Navy, and Army.<ref name=alfo2/> In the first 25 years of its service with the Argentine Air Force, the aircraft accumulated 104,000 flight hours and trained over 800 pilots.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aeroespacio.com.ar/fuerza-aerea/item/935-25-a%C3%B1os-del-entrenador-emb-312-tucano-en-la-faa.html |last=Módica |first=Ivana |title=25 años del entrenador EMB 312 Tucano en la FAA |language=es |publisher=Aeroespacio |date=25 June 2012 |access-date=2 July 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120701230031/http://www.aeroespacio.com.ar/fuerza-aerea/item/935-25-a%C3%B1os-del-entrenador-emb-312-tucano-en-la-faa.html |archive-date=1 July 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref> [[FAdeA]] is developing the [[:es:I.A. 73|IA-73]], a primary trainer to replace EMB-312 Tucano.<ref>Trimble (20 March 2012), p.43</ref> The type aircraft will be relocated to the northern Argentina, where they will be armed and used for [[air interdiction]] and surveillance role.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/23677/interim-argentine-trainers-will-allow-tucanos-to-pursue-armed-role|title=Interim Argentine trainers will allow Tucanos to pursue armed role|date=26 June 2013|first1=Inigo|last1=Guevara|publisher=Jane's|access-date=5 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130703025947/http://www.janes.com/article/23677/interim-argentine-trainers-will-allow-tucanos-to-pursue-armed-role|archive-date=3 July 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Brazil===
[[File:Embraer AT-27 Tucano (EMB-312) Lofting.jpg|thumb|[[Brazilian Air Force]] T-27]]

A total of 118 T-27s were purchased by the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) with an option for a further 50 aircraft.<ref name=hatch86/> On 29 September 1983, the first units were delivered as an [[Aerobatics|aerobatic]] demonstration aircraft for the FAB Demonstration Squadron, the "[[Smoke Squadron]]" (''Esquadrilha da Fumaça''), and the first demonstration took place in December the same year.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Padovani |first=Murilo |url=https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/c1ca6eb9/files/uploaded/v4art1a.pdf |language=pt |journal=Revista Eletrônica AeroDesign Magazine |title=Força Aérea Brasileira Divisão: Esquadrão de Demonstrações Esquadrilha da Fumaça |volume=4 |issue=1 |year=2012 |page=3 |issn=2177-5907 }}</ref> In 1990, the FAB confirmed an order of 10 units from the 50 options held from the original Tucano contract in 1980.<ref name=Gai90>{{cite journal |last=Gaines |first=Mike |editor-last=Winn |editor-first=Allan |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200280.html |title=Brazil orders additional Tucanos |journal=Flight International |issue=4202 |volume=137 |page=20 |publication-date=7 February 1990 |publisher=Reed Business |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=9 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902094503/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200280.html |archive-date=2 September 2017 |url-status=live }}</ref> Eventually, the FAB received the remaining 40 aircraft, raising the total number of delivered units to 168.<ref>{{cite journal |editor-last=Ferreira |editor-first=Luiz |url=https://issuu.com/portalfab/docs/aerovisao_70_anos |title=T-27 TUCANO – Um treinador pioneiro |page=29 |language=pt |journal=Aerovisão |publisher=Gráfica, Editora e Papelaria Impressus |location=Formosa-GO, Brazil |issue=229 |date=April 2011 |issn=1518-8396 |access-date=17 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111222092441/http://issuu.com/portalfab/docs/aerovisao_70_anos |archive-date=22 December 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref>

As part of the FAB's four-year pilot-training program at the [[Brazilian Air Force Academy|Academia da Força Aérea]] (AFA), the EMB-312 is flown on the last year as an advanced training vector.<ref name=corte/> After flying 75 hours on the Neiva Universal basic training aircraft, the student pilots progress to fly 125 hours of advanced training on the Tucano, in which cadets learn to dominate the airplane with acrobatics, precision manoeuvring, instrumental flight, and fly-pasts.<ref name=corte>{{cite journal|last=Corte |first=Luis Carlos |url=http://www.revistadaunifa.aer.mil.br/index.php/ru/article/viewFile/274/4%202006 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130730220819/http://www.revistadaunifa.aer.mil.br/index.php/ru/article/viewFile/274/4%202006 |url-status=dead|archive-date=2013-07-30 |title=O Processo de Formação do Piloto Militar: Uma Análise Comparativa |journal=Revista UNIFA |issue=21 |volume=18 |page=31 |publication-date=December 2006 |language=pt |location=Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |issn=1677-4558 }}</ref> [[Brazilian Naval Aviation]] cadets are required to fly 100 hours on the Tucano at the AFA during the first stage of the three-year training program.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Ende |first=Cees-Jan |editor-last=Bakker |editor-first=Goof |title=Latin scooters forever |journal=Pilots & Planes Military |page=5 |issue=4 |publication-date=July 2011 |location=Utrecht, The Netherlands}}</ref> According to a Brazilian Air Force brigadier, the AFA Tucanos are forecast to be withdrawn in 2022.<ref>{{cite web|last=Silveira |first=Virgínia |url=http://www.agenciasebrae.com.br/noticia.kmf?noticia=8810043 |title=Flight vai desenvolver sistemas de controle e informação |language=pt |publisher=Valor Econômico |date=21 August 2009 |access-date=13 March 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131219234532/http://www.agenciasebrae.com.br/noticia.kmf?noticia=8810043 |archive-date=19 December 2013 |df=dmy }}</ref>

During [[Operation Traira]] in February 1991, six Tucanos were used for [[close air support]] against a group of 40 rebels from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia ([[Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia|FARC]]), which had seized a Brazilian military detachment.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Pinheiro |first=Alvaro |editor-last=Bridges |editor-first=Richard |title=Guerrilhas in the Brazilian Amazon |journal=Military Review |publisher=U. S. Command and General Staff School |location=Fort Leavenworth, USA |issue=2 |volume=76 |pages=46–49 |publication-date=March 1996 |issn=0026-4148 |url=http://cgsc.cdmhost.com/cdm/singleitem/collection/p124201coll1/id/437/rec/6 |access-date=27 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303231648/http://cgsc.cdmhost.com/cdm/singleitem/collection/p124201coll1/id/437/rec/6 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> AT–27s were extensively used in the Amazon for border patrols and interception of illicit flights, jointly operating with [[SIVAM]] (Amazon Surveillance System).<ref>{{cite journal|last=Frederico |first=José |editor-last=Ogo |editor-first=Karina |language=pt |title=A caça na Amazônia |pages=36–37 |journal=Aerovisão |issue=207 |volume=31 |publisher=Centro de Relaçoes Públicas da Aeronáutica |location=Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |publication-date=July 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040621185320/http://www.fab.mil.br/publicacao/aerovis/207/Aero207.pdf |archive-date=21 June 2004 |url=http://www.fab.mil.br/publicacao/aerovis/207/Aero207.pdf |oclc=1786976}}</ref>

===Colombia===
[[File:T-27 Tucano FAC2250.JPG|thumb|Colombian Tucano]]

Fourteen AT-27s were ordered in 1992, and delivery of the first six units took place in December of the same year, followed by seven more units arriving later that same month.<ref name=arrival/> Assigned to the Combat 212 Squadron,<ref name=arm/> the aircraft were initially conceived as trainers, although the type was soon additionally assigned to perform close air support and [[air superiority]] missions as part of counter-insurgency operations during the long-standing and brutal fight with the FARC.<ref name=arm>{{cite web |url=https://www.fac.mil.co/index.php?idcategoria=10902 |title=Use as attack arm&nbsp;... |publisher=Colombian Air Force |access-date=27 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603113831/https://www.fac.mil.co/index.php?idcategoria=10902 |archive-date=3 June 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> The type performed dozens of operations including [[:es:Toma de Mitú#Operacion vuelo de Angel|Vuelo de Angel]], [[Operation Thanatos|Thanatos]], [[Operacion Fenix|Fenix]] and [[Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia#Death of captives in Operation Jupiter|Júpiter]].<ref name=arm/> Over 50,000 flight hours have been completed since the type's introduction without a single loss.<ref name=mission>{{cite web |url=https://www.fac.mil.co/index.php?idcategoria=10903 |title=Accomplishing the mission&nbsp;... |publisher=Colombian Air Force |access-date=27 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603115941/https://www.fac.mil.co/index.php?idcategoria=10903 |archive-date=3 June 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 1998, with Peruvian Air Force assistance, [[night vision goggles]] were integrated into the aircraft to perform night missions.<ref name=arrival>{{cite web|url=https://www.fac.mil.co/index.php?idcategoria=10900|title=The arrival to our Institution|publisher=Colombian Air Force|access-date=27 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603110212/https://www.fac.mil.co/index.php?idcategoria=10900|archive-date=3 June 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> The war scenario led the Air Force to push the type beyond its designed horizon to overcome its operational limits and [[role-playing]] as a real battlefield maturing test platform, providing valuable lessons which unfolded into new requirements that were implemented in the Super Tucano design.<ref name=mission/>

In 2011, Embraer began a three-year program to locally uprate 14 EMB-312s.<ref name=TrimMar>Trimble (20 March 2012), p. 45</ref> A part of the Strategic Development Plan (Plan Estratégico Institucional, or PEI) 2011–2030<ref>{{cite journal |last=Guevara |first=iñigo |editor-last=Hunter |editor-first=Jamie |title=Colombian AF 2030 |journal=Combat Aircraft Monthly|issue=11 |volume=12 |page=43 |publisher=Ian Allan |publication-date=November 2011 |location=Surrey, UK |issn=2041-7489}}</ref> designed to extend the type's lifespan by 15 years,<ref name=TrimMar/> the structural retrofit program involves fitting the airframe with new wings and landing gear.<ref name=TrimAug>{{cite journal|last=Trimble |first=Stephen |editor-last=Morrison |editor-first=Murdo |title=Tucano Boost for Colombia |journal=Flight International |issue=5304 |volume=180 |page=20 |publication-date=16 August 2011 |location=Sutton, UK |publisher=Reed Business Information|issn=0015-3710}}</ref> Fresh [[avionics]] will be installed with the up-to-date [[Rockwell Collins]] [[Inertial Navigation System]] and [[Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System|ACARS]]),<ref name=TrimAug/> while [[Cobham plc|Cobham]] will supply modern [[multi-function display]]s, [[flight management system]]s and the [[EICAS|engine-indicating and crew-alerting system]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cobham.com/media/628069/390%20-%20cobham%20avionics%20selected%20for%20embraer%20emb-312%20tucano%20upgrades.pdf |title=Cobham Selected by Embraer for EMB-312 Tucano Avionics Upgrades |publisher=Cobham |date=22 June 2011 |access-date=8 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120619233011/http://www.cobham.com/media/628069/390%20-%20cobham%20avionics%20selected%20for%20embraer%20emb-312%20tucano%20upgrades.pdf |archive-date=19 June 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> The first prototype will be designed and produced by Embraer in Brazil, while remaining work will be completed at the Corporation of the Colombian Aeronautic Industry SA (Corporación de la Industria Aeronáutica Colombiana S.A.)<ref name=TrimAug/>

===Egypt===
In December 1983, a US$181 million contract was signed for 10 complete aircraft plus a further 110 aircraft in kit form.<ref name=embraer_His/> The joint Egyptian/Iraqi purchase involved an extensive technology transfer program which included the manufacturing of some aircraft parts and final assembly at Heliopolis Air Works in [[Helwan]],<ref name=Todd/> becoming Embraer's first experience in assembling aircraft abroad.<ref name=embraer_His>{{cite web |url=http://centrohistorico.embraer.com.br/en/historia-aeronaves/emb-312-tucano.htm |title=Aircraft History EMB 312 Tucano |publisher=Embraer |access-date=9 March 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120508210250/http://centrohistorico.embraer.com.br/en/historia-aeronaves/emb-312-tucano.htm |archive-date=8 May 2012  }}</ref> Eighty of the 110 units built in Egypt were delivered to Iraq. The first aircraft arrived in late 1984 and the first unit assembled in Egypt was delivered in 1985. An additional order for 14 aircraft was made in 1989, bringing the total to 54 Tucanos. The EMB312 Tucano trainers were flown with 6 squadron, 25 squadron and 35 squadron. No. 6 Squadron retired their Tucanos and transformed to the E-June UAV at Kom Awshim. In 2023 the Tucanos still operate from Inshas (25 Sqn), Ismaïla (25 Sqn) and Hurghada (35 Sqn) for pilot training at the AT-802 Air Tractor.<ref name=forecast_Int>{{cite web |url=http://www.forecastinternational.com/samples/F617_CompleteSample.pdf |title=The Market for Military Fixed-Wing Trainer Aircraft – Product Code #F617 |publisher=Forecast International |date=April 2011 |access-date=9 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111115130256/http://www.forecastinternational.com/samples/F617_CompleteSample.pdf |archive-date=15 November 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="IAPR22 p75">Rivas and Cicalesi (2007), p. 75.</ref>

===France===
[[File:487 312-UF Embraer 312F Tucano DV 05.312 BA701 Salon de Provence.jpg|thumb|French Air Force EMB-312 Tucano]]

Following a world trend towards the replacement of jet trainers with lower-cost, turboprop trainers, in July 1990 the [[French Air Force]] initially ordered 80 slightly modified variants, designated as the [[#Variants|EMB-312F]].<ref name=Hale>{{cite journal |last=Hale |first=John |editor-last=Franks |editor-first=Richard |title=French Tucanos |journal=Model Aircraft Monthly |issue=10|volume=1 |page=26 |publisher=SAM |publication-date=October 2002 |location=Bedford, UK |issn=1475-3405}}</ref> The two-year-long negotiation deal was an offset for 36 [[Eurocopter AS365 Dauphin|AS365s]] and 16 [[AS350]]s bought by the [[Brazilian Army]] and 30 [[AS355]] Ecureuils for the [[Brazilian Navy]].<ref name=Gaines8/> Two preproduction aircraft were built for a year-long evaluation process at the [[General Directorate for Armament]], the first preproduction EMB-312F flew in April 1993.<ref name=Hale/> The model had a ventral airbrake and a French COMM system. The total number of aircraft ordered was reduced to 50, with commissioning of the first production model taking place in 1995.<ref name=Hale/> The aircraft were based in Salon-de-Provence, replacing the [[Fouga CM.170 Magister|Fouga Magister]] which had provided training for Air Force students for nearly 40 years.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defense.gouv.fr/air/histoire/face-aux-defis-presents-et-futurs/face-aux-defis-presents-et-futurs/ |title=Face aux défis présents et futurs |language=fr |publisher=French Air Force |date=5 April 2011 |access-date=3 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121007225613/http://www.defense.gouv.fr/air/histoire/face-aux-defis-presents-et-futurs/face-aux-defis-presents-et-futurs |archive-date=7 October 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Following the type's introduction, the Air Force training scheme began with the [[Socata TB 30 Epsilon|Epsilon]], continued on the Tucano and culminated with the [[Alpha Jet]] for [[Lead-in fighter trainer#Lead-in fighter training|lead-in fighter training]].<ref name=Gaines8/> After 15 years in service, the French Tucano fleet was withdrawn on 22 July 2009,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defense.gouv.fr/air/breves-migration/un-dernier-vol-pour-l-avion-ecole-tucano/ |title=Un dernier vol pour l'avion-école Tucano |language=fr |publisher=Sirpa air |date=12 October 2010 |access-date=8 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406044506/http://www.defense.gouv.fr/air/breves-migration/un-dernier-vol-pour-l-avion-ecole-tucano |archive-date=6 April 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> despite the fact that most aircraft had only reached half of their potential operational life.<ref name=aerobusiness/>

===Honduras===
[[File:Honduras Air Force - Embraer T-27 Tucano (FAH-258).jpg|thumb|Honduran AT-27 at [[Golosón International Airport|Hector C. Moncada Air Base]]]]

Honduras, the Tucano's first foreign customer, purchased the type to replace the [[North American T-28 Trojan]]. Twelve EMB-312s were received between 1982 and 1983.<ref name="IAPR22 p76">Rivas and Cicalesi (2007), p. 76.</ref> The aircraft are used for both advanced training and patrolling Honduran airspace for illegal flights.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scramble.nl/hn.htm |last=Sonneveld |first=Wim |title=Honduran Air Arms |publisher=Scramble |date=13 January 2004 |access-date=16 February 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120121014441/http://www.scramble.nl/hn.htm |archive-date=21 January 2012  }}</ref>

On 14 April 2003, the type was used to shoot down an [[Aero Commander 500]] with {{convert|7.62|mm|in|2|abbr=on}} machine gun pods. The two Colombian occupants died during the crash, while {{convert|942|kg|lb}} of cocaine were collected from the wreckage.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_167.shtml |title=Drug-Busting Operations Air-to-Air Victories |publisher=Central and Latin America Database |date=1 September 2003 |access-date=8 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090506093656/http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_167.shtml |archive-date=6 May 2009 |url-status=usurped }}</ref> In August 2010, a [[Piper PA-34 Seneca|Piper Seneca]] aircraft coming from Colombia was tracked down by an AT-27. Five criminals were arrested and {{convert|550|kg|lb}} of cocaine were seized.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://old.latribuna.hn/2010/08/17/500-kilos-de-cocaina-incautan-en-choloma/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130217222443/http://old.latribuna.hn/2010/08/17/500-kilos-de-cocaina-incautan-en-choloma/ |url-status=dead|archive-date=17 February 2013 |language=es |title=500 kilos de cocaína incautan en Choloma |publisher=La Tribuna |date=17 August 2010 |access-date=8 November 2012 }}</ref> Three months later, a Tucano was used to intercept an aircraft with {{convert|550|kg|lb}} of cocaine.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archivo.elheraldo.hn/Ediciones/2010/11/04/Noticias/FF-AA-Avioneta-fue-interceptada-por-un-avion-tucano-y-dos-F-5 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120709091619/http://archivo.elheraldo.hn/Ediciones/2010/11/04/Noticias/FF-AA-Avioneta-fue-interceptada-por-un-avion-tucano-y-dos-F-5 |url-status=dead|archive-date=2012-07-09 |title=FF AA: Avioneta fue interceptada por un avión tucano y dos F-5 |language=es |publisher=Diario el Heraldo |date=November 2010 |access-date=16 February 2012 }}</ref>

In February 2012, the military of Honduras and Embraer began a study of the aging AT-27 cells for a possible reconditioning program.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.elheraldo.hn/Secciones-Principales/Al-Frente/Recuperaran-aviones-EMB-312-antes-de-comprar-Super-Tucanos|title=Recuperarán aviones EMB 312 antes de comprar Súper Tucanos|language=es|publisher=Diario el Heraldo|date=15 February 2012|access-date=16 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120216212945/http://www.elheraldo.hn/Secciones-Principales/Al-Frente/Recuperaran-aviones-EMB-312-antes-de-comprar-Super-Tucanos|archive-date=16 February 2012|url-status=live}}</ref> Later on that month, the Honduras defence minister disclosed that the reconditioning of six aircraft would cost US$10 million.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.latribuna.hn/2012/02/24/unos-10-millones-costaria-reparacion-de-seis-tucanos/ |title=Unos $10 millones costaría reparación de seis Tucanos |language=es |publisher=La Tribuna |date=24 February 2012 |access-date=23 March 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120227190331/http://www.latribuna.hn/2012/02/24/unos-10-millones-costaria-reparacion-de-seis-tucanos/ |archive-date=27 February 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref> In May of the same year, a Tucano intercepted an aircraft from which {{convert|400|kg|lb}} of cocaine were seized.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.eltiempo.com/justicia/avin-ilegal-buscaba-llevar-cocana-a-honduras/11749104 |title=Avión ilegal buscaba llevar media tonelada de cocaína a Honduras |language=es |work=El Tiempo |date=9 May 2012 |location=San Andrés, Colombia |access-date=23 September 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602071017/http://m.eltiempo.com/justicia/avin-ilegal-buscaba-llevar-cocana-a-honduras/11749104 |archive-date=2 June 2013 |df=dmy }}</ref> In the following month, a Honduran Tucano shot down a drug-smuggling, twin-engined prop Cessna over the [[Bay Islands Department|Bay Islands]], killing the two occupants, including an undercover [[Drug Enforcement Administration|DEA]] agent.<ref name=DEA>{{cite web|title=Agente de la DEA murió al derribar narcoavioneta |url=http://www.latribuna.hn/2012/08/25/agente-de-la-dea-murio-al-derribar-narcoavioneta/ |language=es |publisher=La Tribuna |date=25 August 2012 |access-date=8 November 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123023939/http://www.latribuna.hn/2012/08/25/agente-de-la-dea-murio-al-derribar-narcoavioneta/ |archive-date=23 November 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref> Honduran law does not permit shooting down illegal flights,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.insightcrime.org/news-analysis/honduras-air-force-general-fired-due-to-drug-flight-shoot-downs |last=Pachico |first=Elyssa |title=Was A Honduras General Fired For Drug Flight Shoot-Downs? |publisher=In Sightcrime |date=5 September 2012 |access-date=8 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151020175910/http://www.insightcrime.org/news-analysis/honduras-air-force-general-fired-due-to-drug-flight-shoot-downs |archive-date=20 October 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> so the event led to the dismissal of the Honduran general who ordered the attack.<ref name=DEA/>

===Iran===
[[File:Iran Revolutionary Guard Air Force Embraer EMB-312 Tucano.jpg|thumb|[[Iranian Revolutionary Guard]] Air Force Embraer EMB-312 Tucano at the 2014 [[Iran Kish Air Show|Kish Air Show]]]]
Iran received 25 aircraft between 1989 and 1991.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php |title=Stockholm International Peace Research Institute |publisher=sipri.org |access-date=13 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100414022558/http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php |archive-date=14 April 2010 |url-status=live }}</ref> Between 2000 and 2001, the [[IRGC]] used Tucanos against Taliban positions and in drug-busting operations in the eastern Iranian borders.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_219.shtml |title=IRIAF Since 1988 |publisher=ACIG |date=16 September 2003 |access-date=13 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120126095600/http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_219.shtml |archive-date=26 January 2012 |url-status=usurped }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_339.shtml |title=Afghanistan, 1979–2001; Part 3 |publisher=ACIG |last1=Cooper |first1=Tom |last2=Troung |last3=Koelich |first3=Marc |date=29 October 2003 |access-date=14 September 2012 |url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607003621/http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_339.shtml |archive-date=7 June 2011 |df=dmy }}</ref>

===Iraq===
Iraq bought 80 aircraft produced under license by Helwan,<ref name="IAPR22 p76"/> with deliveries being completed in 1987.<ref name=hatch86>{{cite journal |last=Hatch |first=Paul |editor-last=Mason |editor-first=David |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1988/1988%20-%202138.html |title=Military Aircraft of the Word |journal=Flight International |issue=4126 |volume=134 |page=61 |publication-date=13 August 1988 |publisher=Business Press International |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=28 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121113140050/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1988/1988%20-%202138.html |archive-date=13 November 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Following the end of the [[Gulf War|Gulf]] and [[Iraq war]]s, Iraq had no EMB-312 in its inventory.<ref>Hoyle (2011), p. 41</ref>

===Mauritania===
[[File:Air force of Mauritania.jpg|thumb|Mauritanian EMB-312F]]

In 2011, the Islamic Air Force of Mauritania received pilot training from the French Air Force and four ex-French EMB-312Fs, which still had two-thirds of their structural life,<ref name=aerobusiness>{{cite web|url=http://aerobusiness.com.br/2008/codigo/p_not_negocios_e_servicos_v1.asp?tiponot=5&not_ID=109 |title=Tucanos franceses para Mauritânia |language=pt |publisher=Aero Business |author=Pereira, Roberto |date=15 December 2010 |access-date=2 February 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525140833/http://aerobusiness.com.br/2008/codigo/p_not_negocios_e_servicos_v1.asp?tiponot=5&not_ID=109 |archive-date=25 May 2013 |df=dmy }}</ref> were delivered.<ref name=gueye>{{cite news |url=http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2011/07/14/feature-02 |title=Mauritania boosts counter-terror capacities |agency=Magharebia News |author=Gueye, Bakari |date=14 July 2011 |location=Nouakchott, Mauritania |access-date=14 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120407034956/http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2011/07/14/feature-02 |archive-date=7 April 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> The aircraft underwent a complete overhaul before being delivered, receiving wing hard points for gun pods and new radios.<ref name=aerobusiness/> The type is based at [[Atar, Mauritania|Atar]] in the northwest of the country, where they are used in attack missions against [[Al-Qaeda Organization in the Islamic Maghreb]] (AQIM) guerrillas.<ref name=aerobusiness/> In March 2012, Mauritanian EMB-312Fs intruded into Mali air space while attacking AQIM terrorist targets inside Mali; the two countries are cooperating in military action against these terrorists.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://afriport.hu/hirek/12375-rossz-autot-ltt-ki-a-mauritan-legier-gepe-maliban.html |title=Rossz autót lőtt ki a mauritán légierő gépe Maliban |language=hu |publisher=AfriPort |author=Gergő, Pap |date=14 March 2012 |access-date=14 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120315094437/http://www.afriport.hu/hirek/12375-rossz-autot-ltt-ki-a-mauritan-legier-gepe-maliban.html |archive-date=15 March 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Paraguay===
[[File:Embraer 312.jpg|thumb|Paraguayan AT-27]]

Paraguay received six aircraft in 1987.<ref name="IAPR22 p77">Rivas and Cicalesi (2007), p. 77.</ref> Six more were purchased in the late 1990s, but the deal fell through, and these machines ended up being the second batch sold to Angola.<ref name=vector /> On 29 December 2010, three used ex-Brazilian aircraft were exchanged for four EMB-326GB (Xavante) trainer aircraft and one Boeing-707 transport aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://g1.globo.com/Noticias/Mundo/0,,MUL1205273-5602,00-COMISSAO+DA+CAMARA+APROVA+DOACAO+DE+AVIOES+BRASILEIROS+AO+PARAGUAI.html |title=Comissão da Câmara aprova doação de 3 aviões brasileiros ao Paraguai |language=pt |publisher=Globo |date=23 June 2009 |access-date=14 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130704002530/http://g1.globo.com/Noticias/Mundo/0,,MUL1205273-5602,00-COMISSAO+DA+CAMARA+APROVA+DOACAO+DE+AVIOES+BRASILEIROS+AO+PARAGUAI.html |archive-date=4 July 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sipri.org/research/armaments/transfers/measuring/Exporter-2010.pdf |title=Global transfers of major conventional weapons sorted by supplier (exporter), 2010 |publisher=[[Stockholm International Peace Research Institute|Sipri]] |date=9 March 2011 |access-date=14 February 2012 }}{{dead link|date=December 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> In 2011, the Paraguayan Tucanos with assistance from the Brazilian Air Force, went through a complete engine overhaul.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fab.mil.br/portal/capa/index.php?mostra=8643 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120801203435/http://www.fab.mil.br/portal/capa/index.php?mostra=8643 |url-status=dead|archive-date=1 August 2012 |title=FAB faz revisão de motor de aeronave Tucano para a Força Aérea Paraguaia |language=pt |publisher=Agência Força Aérea |date=25 October 2011 |access-date=8 March 2012 }}</ref>

The 3o Escuadrón de caza "Moros" in [[Asunción]] operates the Tucanos in counter-insurgency missions, forming the squads "Gamma" and "Omega" since 1996.<ref>Alfonzo 2003, p. 5</ref> In April 2011, Paraguayan Tucano fitted with 20&nbsp;mm autocannon [[gun pod]]s and ferry tanks were deployed at [[Mariscal Estigarribia]] Air Base to monitor illicit flights entering Paraguayan airspace from Bolivia.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.abc.com.py/edicion-impresa/politica/patrulla-aerea-en-frontera-con-bolivia-250543.html |title=Patrulla aérea en frontera con Bolivia |publisher=ABC Color |date=28 April 2011 |access-date=8 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130604012947/http://www.abc.com.py/edicion-impresa/politica/patrulla-aerea-en-frontera-con-bolivia-250543.html |archive-date=4 June 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Peru===
In 1986, Peru ordered 20 Tucanos to replace the Cessna T-37 Tweet. Deliveries to the [[Peruvian Air Force]] commenced in April 1987 at the rate of two units per month; the last delivery took place in November 1987.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Swanborough |first=Gordon |editor-last=Green |editor-first=William |title=Military Affairs |journal=Air International |issue=1 |volume=34 |page=2 |publication-date=January 1988 |publisher=Fine Scroll |location=Bromley, UK|issn=0306-5634}}</ref> In 1991, an additional 10 Tucanos were purchased for antidrug operations, reaching a total of 30 aircraft, although six of them were resold to [[Angola]] in 2002.<ref name="IAPR22 p77-8">Rivas and Cicalesi (2007), pp. 77–78.</ref> The first EMB-312s took part in the ''Escuadrón de Instrucción básica'' No. 512 from the Air Academy as part of the ''Grupo de Entrenamiento'' 51 based at Las Palmas – [[Lima]].<ref name=Alf6/> Another squadron of EMB-312s was assigned to ''Escuadrón Aéreo Táctico'' No. 514.<ref name=Alf6>Alfonzo (2003), p. 6</ref> The first aircraft were painted in orange and white for trainers and gradually replaced by jungle camouflage, while a few were painted dark gray for night missions. Most of these aircraft were adorned with an aggressive shark's mouth.<ref name=Alf6/> The aircraft cockpit was later modified to suit [[night-vision goggles]] and [[forward-looking infrared]] sensors for night operations.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/embraer-sets-date-for-alx-prototype-maiden-flight-21283/ |title=Embraer sets date for ALX prototype maiden flight |date=30 August 1995 |publisher=Flight International |access-date=5 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927121433/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/embraer-sets-date-for-alx-prototype-maiden-flight-21283/ |archive-date=27 September 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> Since 1991, the FAP Tucanos were actively involved in ground attack operations over the [[Cenepa River]] on drug-busting operations, shooting down over 65 planes and performing attacks on several illicit ships.<ref name=Alf6/><ref>{{cite journal |last=Flores |first=Jackson |editor-last=Reed |editor-first=Carol |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1999/1999%20-%201502.html |title=Brazil's New Teeth |journal=Flight International |issue=4678 |volume=155 |page=48 |publication-date=26 May 1999 |publisher=Reed Business |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=20 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927115813/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1999/1999%20-%201502.html |archive-date=27 September 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> Between 1992 and 2001, the [[Air Bridge Denial Program]] provided intelligence for the Air Force in counter-drug operations; during the program, at least nine civilian aircraft were shot down by AT-27s.<ref>{{cite report|url=http://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=13719|last=Helgerson|first=John|title=Procedures used in Narcotics Airbridge Denial Program in Peru, 1995–2001|publisher=U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)|pages=15–118|date=25 August 2008|access-date=5 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130526160711/http://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=13719|archive-date=26 May 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> During the [[Cenepa War]], loaded with four [[Mk.82]] bombs and equipped with night-vision goggles, a fleet of Tucanos carried out a night bomber raid targeting Ecuadorian forces over the [[Cordillera del Cóndor]] at dawn on 5 February 1995.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Rospigliosi |first=Fernando |language=es |url=http://www.fap-club.com/relato-de-un-tucano-en-la-guerra-del-cenepa |title=Ataque al Amanecer |journal=Caretas: Ilustración peruana |issue=1352 |publisher=Editora Novolexis |location=Lima, Peru |pages=30–31 |publication-date=2 March 1995 |issn=0576-7423 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120628204514/http://www.fap-club.com/relato-de-un-tucano-en-la-guerra-del-cenepa |archive-date=28 June 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref>

The aircraft were part of the 2002 Quiñones Plan, which was implemented in 2007 and aimed at putting unserviceable equipment back into service.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Bromley |first1=Mark |last2=Guevara |first2=Iñigo |editor-last=Tan |editor-first=Andrew |url=http://www.seguridadcondemocracia.org/administrador_de_carpetas/biblioteca_virtual/pdf/Chapter%2012-1arms%20trade.pdf |title=The Global Arms Trade: A Handbook |chapter=Chapter 12: Arms modernization in Latin America |location=London, UK |page=171 |publisher=Routledge |publication-date=23 February 2010 |isbn=978-1-85743-497-2 |oclc=278425435 |access-date=20 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522020245/http://www.seguridadcondemocracia.org/administrador_de_carpetas/biblioteca_virtual/pdf/Chapter%2012-1arms%20trade.pdf |archive-date=22 May 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In March 2012, the Peruvian Air Force was considering an option to modernize 20 EMB-312s in a program jointly conducted by the Brazilian Air Force and Embraer under a wide-ranging defence agreement signed with the Brazilian defence ministry.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Trimble |first=Stephen |editor-last=Morrison |editor-first=Murdo |url=http://www.emagazine.flightinternational.com/1F4f50c53eb2f9d012.cde/page/18 |title=Peru ponders light-attack, KC-390 offers under Brazil deal |journal=Flight International |issue=5331 |volume=181 |page=18 |publication-date=6 March 2012 |location=Sutton, UK |publisher=Reed Business Information |issn=0015-3710 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120819015201/http://www.emagazine.flightinternational.com/1F4f50c53eb2f9d012.cde/page/18 |archive-date=19 August 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref>

===Venezuela===
[[File:EMB-312 Tucano Fuerza Aérea Venezolana - García-Rivera.jpg|thumb|[[Venezuelan Air Force]] AT-27]]

On 14 July 1986, the Venezuelan Air Force received the first four Embraer EMB-312 Tucano AT/T-27s from an order of 30 aircraft that was worth US$50 million.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Swanborough |first=Gordon |editor-last=Green |editor-first=William |title=Military Affairs |journal=Air International |issue=5 |volume=31 |page=224 |publication-date=November 1986 |publisher=Fine Scroll |location=Bromley, UK|issn=0306-5634}}</ref> A year later, the remaining aircraft were delivered, divided into two variants: 18 T-27s for training purposes and 12 AT-27s for tactical support.<ref name=acigve/> The Tucanos were assigned to Grupo 14 at the Escuadrón de Entrenamiento No. 142 "Escorpiones" based in [[Maracay]], to the Grupo 13 at the Escuadrón de Operaciones Especiales No. 131 "Zorros" based in [[Barcelona (Venezuela)|Barcelona]], and Grupo de Operaciones Especiales No. 15 at the Escuadrón No.152 "Avispones" based in [[Maracaibo]].<ref name=Alf10/> The AT-27s, along with the [[OV-10 Bronco]]s, were actively involved in many antiguerrilla, antinarcotic, and antikidnapping campaigns close to the Colombian borders.<ref name=Alf10>Alfonzo 2003, p. 10</ref>

On 27 November 1992, the aircraft were used by [[Mutiny|mutineering]] officers who staged a ''[[1992 Venezuelan coup d'état attempts|coup d'état]]'' against President [[Carlos Andrés Pérez]]. The rebels dropped bombs and launched rockets against police and government buildings in [[Caracas]].<ref name=acigve/> One EMB-312 and two OV-10 Broncos were shot down during the uprising by [[General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon|F-16s]] flown by loyalist pilots.<ref name=acigve>{{cite web |url=http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_161.shtml |title=Venezuela |publisher=ACIG |last1=Cooper |first1=Tom |last2=Sosa |first2=Juan |date=1 September 2003 |access-date=14 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070302234136/http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_161.shtml |archive-date=2 March 2007 |url-status=usurped }}</ref> A lot of 12 is scheduled to be refurbished in Venezuela as of 2013.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.infodefensa.com/?noticia=la-fuerza-aerea-venezolana-incorporara-12-aviones-embraer-emb-312-tucano |title=La Fuerza Aérea Venezolana incorporará 12 aviones Embraer EMB-312 Tucano |language=es |publisher=Infodefesa |date=22 January 2013 |access-date=5 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130128124831/http://www.infodefensa.com/?noticia=la-fuerza-aerea-venezolana-incorporara-12-aviones-embraer-emb-312-tucano |archive-date=28 January 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Variants==

===EMB-312A===
The standard production model with fatigue life of 8,000 hours:<ref name=t1999/>
* '''Tucano YT-27'''<br>Pre-series prototypes
* '''Tucano T-27'''<br>Two-seat basic-training variant
* '''Tucano AT-27'''<br>Two-seat light-attack variant

===EMB-312F===
An uprated version built for the French Air Force, the EMB-312F is equipped with Telecommunications Electronique Aeronautique et Maritime (TEAM SA, part of Cobham plc) avionics,<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://208.43.246.164/embraer/reader2/?lT=page&pID=1&eID=813&lP=20 |journal=Bateirante |editor-last=Galvão |editor-first=Mário |title=Assim se passaram 25 anos |publisher=Jac Gráfica Editora |location=São José dos Campos, Brazil |volume=25 |issue=637 |language=pt |date=19 August 1994 |access-date=26 September 2012 }}{{dead link|date=December 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Thomson-CSF (now [[Thales Group]]) [[Air navigation#Navigation aids|navigation aids]],<ref name=Gaines8>{{cite journal |last=Gaines |first=Mike |editor-last=Winn |editor-first=Allan |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200066.html |title=France Poised for Tucano Order |journal=Flight International |issue=411 |volume=137 |page=8 |publication-date=17 January 1990 |publisher=Reed Business |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=3 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150325160810/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200066.html |archive-date=25 March 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> increased fatigue life, propeller and canopy de-icing system and a ventral [[Air brake (aircraft)|airbrake]].<ref>{{cite journal |last=Penney |first=Steward |editor-last=Morrison |editor-first=Murdo |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2003/2003%20-%201277.html |title=Primed for Combat |journal=Flight International |issue=4884 |volume=163 |pages=50–51 |publication-date=27 May 2003 |publisher=Reed Business Information |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=21 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305153921/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2003/2003%20-%201277.html |archive-date=5 March 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> The first EMB-312F flew on 7 April 1993.{{Citation needed|date=February 2013}}

[[File:Shorts Tucano T51, ZH209.jpg|thumb|Tucano Mk.51 (ZH209) on display at [[Farnborough Airshow]] in September 1990.]]

===EMB-312S===
Also known as the [[Short Tucano]], the EMB-312S is an uprated, licence-produced trainer version built at Short Brothers of [[Belfast]] in [[Northern Ireland]] for the [[Royal Air Force]] and licensed for export.<ref name="t1999"/> The type features a more powerful [[Honeywell]] 820&nbsp;kW (1,100 shp) Garrett [[TPE331]]-12B engine with four-blade, variable-pitch propeller,<ref name=t1999>Taylor 1999, p. 299</ref> custom avionics, structural strengthening expanding fatigue life to 12,000hr,<ref>{{cite journal |editor-last=Mason |editor-first=David |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1987/1987%20-%201349.html |title=Military aircraft of the World |journal=Flight International |issue=4073 |volume=132 |page=47 |publication-date=1 August 1987 |location=Sutton, UK |publisher=Reed Business Publishing |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=21 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131031083630/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1987/1987%20-%201349.html |archive-date=31 October 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> two-piece canopy for better bird strike proofing, [[pressurized cabin]], a ventral airbrake, aerodynamic changes to the wing, better wheel brakes, and an optional armament capability.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Gaines |first=Mike |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1988/1988%20-%201513.html |title=RAF still waiting for Tucano |journal=Flight International |issue=4117 |volume=133 |page=8 |publication-date=11 June 1988 |publisher=Reed Business |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=14 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131031083051/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1988/1988%20-%201513.html |archive-date=31 October 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* '''Tucano T.1'''<br>Original version of the Short Tucano used by the RAF.
* '''Tucano Mk.51'''<br>Export variant for [[Kenya Air Force]].
* '''Tucano Mk.52'''<br>Export variant for [[Kuwait Air Force]].

===EMB-312G1===
A prototype built in 1986 with Garrett engine<ref name=contador>{{cite web |url=http://www.contatoradar.com.br/paginas-da-historia/706-embraer-40-anos-defendendo-a-amazonia |title=Embraer 40 anos: Defendendo a Amazônia |language=pt |publisher=Contato Radar |access-date=14 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522190650/http://www.contatoradar.com.br/paginas-da-historia/706-embraer-40-anos-defendendo-a-amazonia |archive-date=22 May 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===EMB-312H===
A Northrop/Embraer developed prototype for [[United States Air Force|USAF]] (JPATS) competition for an advanced trainer, from which derived the [[Embraer EMB-314 Super Tucano|EMB-314 Super Tucano]] (ALX) now in production for FAB.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.embraerdefensesystems.com/english/content/training/tucano_origin.asp |title=Super Tucano |publisher=Embraer Defense Systems |access-date=14 September 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120815224311/http://www.embraerdefensesystems.com/english/content/training/tucano_origin.asp |archive-date=15 August 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref>

==Operators==
[[File:Tucano-Operators.png|thumb|400px|Map with EMB 312 operators in blue, Short Tucano operators in light blue and former operators in red]]
[[File:Commemorative painting of Brazilian Tucano.jpg|thumb|A [[Brazilian Air Force Academy]] Tucano received a special painting to celebrate 30 years of service within the Brazilian Air Force.]]

;{{ANG}}
* [[National Air Force of Angola]] – 13 EMB-312<ref name="WAF17">{{cite web|title=World Air Forces 2017|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/14484|website=Flight Global|access-date=4 August 2017|pages=6–18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170731231249/https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/14484|archive-date=31 July 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>
;{{ARG}}
* [[Argentine Air Force]] – 14 EMB-312<ref name="WAF17"/>
** Escuela de Aviación Militar (EAM) at Cordoba.
;{{BRA}}
* [[Brazilian Air Force]] – 102 EMB-312<ref name="WAF17"/>
** [[Smoke Squadron]] (EDA)
** [[Brazilian Air Force Academy]] (Academia da Força Aérea) (AFA)
** First Squadron of the Fourteenth Aviation Group (1º/14º GAv) Esquadrão "Pampa" at [[Canoas Air Force Base|Canoas]]
** Second Squadron of the Fourteenth Aviation Group (2º/14º GAv) at [[Canoas Air Force Base|Canoas]]
** First Squadron of the First Aviation Group (1°/1° GAv) Esquadrão "Jambock" at [[Santa Cruz Air Force Base|Santa Cruz]]
** Second Squadron of the First Aviation Group (2°/1° GAv) Esquadrão "Pif-Faf" at [[Santa Cruz Air Force Base|Santa Cruz]]
** Third Squadron of the Third Aviation Group (3º/3º GAV) Esquadrão "Flecha" at [[:pt:Base Aérea de Campo Grande|Campo Grande]]
** Seventh Regional Air Command HQ Flight at [[Base Aérea de Boa Vista|Boa Vista]]
** Seventh Regional Air Command HQ Flight at [[Porto Velho Air Force Base|Porto Velho]]
** Fifth Regional Air Command HQ Flight at [[Natal Air Force Base|Natal]]
;{{CAF}}
* [[Central African Republic Air Force]] – 2 EMB-312<ref name="WAF17"/>
;{{COL}}
* [[Colombian Aerospace Force]] – 14 EMB-312<ref name="WAF17"/>
** Escuadrón de Combate 212 at Apiay
;{{EGY}}
* [[Egyptian Air Force]] – 54 EMB-312<ref name="WAF17"/>
** 102 Tactical Air Wing at Ismailia/Hurghada
***  6 Squadron (Bilbeis, wfu) --> E-June UAV (Kom Awshim)
*** 25 Squadron (Inshas and Ismaila)
*** 35 Squadron (Hurghada)
;{{HON}}
* [[Honduran Air Force]] – 8 EMB-312, 2 in service 6 in storage .<ref name="WAF17"/>
** Escuela de Aviacion Militar (EAM)
;{{IRN}}
* [[IRGC Air Force]] – 15 EMB-312<ref name="WAF17"/>
;{{KWT}}
* [[Kuwait Air Force]] – 12 Tucano T52 ''(see [[Short Tucano]])''.<ref name="WAF17"/>
;{{KEN}}
* [[Kenya Air Force]] – 12 Tucano T51 ''(see [[Short Tucano]])''.<ref name="WAF17"/>
;{{MRT}}
* [[Mauritanian Air Force]] – 5 EMB-312F<ref name=gueye/><ref name="WAF17"/>
** Ecole Militaire Inter Armes (EMIA) at [[Atar, Mauritania|Atar]]
;{{MOZ}}
* [[Mozambique Defence Armed Forces|Mozambique Air Force]] – 3 EMB-312 donated by Brazil<ref>{{cite web|title=Brazil gifts Tucano training aircraft to Mozambique|url=https://macauhub.com.mo/2014/03/20/brazil-gifts-tucano-training-aircraft-to-mozambique/|website=Macau Hub|access-date=4 August 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170804165304/https://macauhub.com.mo/2014/03/20/brazil-gifts-tucano-training-aircraft-to-mozambique/|archive-date=4 August 2017|location=Macau|date=20 March 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nkala|first1=Oscar|title=Brazil donates three Tucanos to Mozambique|url=http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=34160:brazil-donates-three-tucanos-to-mozambique&catid=35:Aerospace&Itemid=107|website=Defence Web|access-date=4 August 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170804165100/http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=34160:brazil-donates-three-tucanos-to-mozambique&catid=35:Aerospace&Itemid=107|archive-date=4 August 2017|date=27 March 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>
;{{PAR}}
* [[Military of Paraguay|Paraguayan Air Force]] – 6 EMB-312.<ref name="WAF17"/>
** 3 Escuadrón de Roconocimento y Ataque "Moros"
*** Escuadrilla Gama
*** Escuadrilla Omega
;{{PER}}
* [[Peruvian Air Force]] – 17 EMB-312.<ref name="WAF17"/>
** Escuadrón Aereo de Instrución 512
** Escuadrón Aereo de Instrución 514
;{{VEN}}
* [[Venezuelan Air Force]] – 19 EMB-312<ref name="WAF17"/>
** Escuadrón 131
** Escuadrón 141
** Escuadrón 142
** Escuadrón 152

=== Former operators ===
;{{FRA}}
* [[French Air Force]] : 50 EMB-312F from 1995 to 2009, 20 in 2007.
** Flying School at [[Salon-de-Provence Air Base]]
* Centre d'essais en vol
* Centre d'Études et d'Armement de Mulhouse
;{{IRQ}}
* [[Iraqi Air Force]] : 80 EMB-312 delivered between 1985 and 1988
;{{GBR}}
* [[Royal Air Force]] – 130 Tucano T1 ''(see [[Short Tucano]])''.<ref name="WAF17"/>

==Aircraft on display==
[[File:FAF EMB312F 499.jpg|thumb|French AF, EMB-312F MSN 312499, at the Musée Européen de l'Aviation de Chasse d'Ancône (France)]]
The Embraer EMB 312F [[Serial number|MSN]] 312496,<ref>{{cite web |title=Embraer EMB-312F "Tucano" - F-SFUO - n°496 - c/n 312496
|language=fr |website=pyperpote.tonsite.biz |url=http://www.pyperpote.tonsite.biz/listinmae/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=760:embraer-emb-312f-qtucanoq-f-sfuo-nd496-cn-312496&catid=43:tarmac&Itemid=54 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413182735/http://www.pyperpote.tonsite.biz/listinmae/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=760%3Aembraer-emb-312f-qtucanoq-f-sfuo-nd496-cn-312496&catid=43%3Atarmac&Itemid=54 |archive-date=13 April 2014 }}</ref> a former [[aircraft]] of the [[French Air Force|''Armée de l'Air'']] is on display in ''[[Musée de l'air et de l'espace]]'' from 2014<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.avionslegendaires.net/reportage/lifting-pour-le-tarmac-du-musee-de-lair-et-de-lespace/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140320181959/http://www.avionslegendaires.net/reportage/lifting-pour-le-tarmac-du-musee-de-lair-et-de-lespace/|url-status=dead|title=Lifting pour le tarmac du Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace - Reportage avionslegendaires.net|archivedate=20 March 2014}}</ref> in a typical French livery.

The Embraer EMB 312F MSN 312499, is on display at the Musée Européen de l'Aviation de Chasse d'Ancône.

Short/Embraer EMB 312S prototype MSN 312007 G-BTUC (ex PP-ZTC) is on display at [https://www.ulsteraviationsociety.org/tucano Ulster Aviation Society museum], Maze Long Kesh, Lisburn, Northern Ireland

==Specifications (standard EMB 312)==
[[File:EMB-312 Cockpit.jpeg|thumb|Brazilian Air Force EMB-312 Cockpit]]

{{Aircraft specs
|ref=''Air International, Vol. 26, Issue 6'',<ref>{{cite journal|last=Swanborough |first=Gordon |editor-last=Green |editor-first=William |title=World Trainer Directory |journal=Air International |issue=6 |volume=28 |page=301 |publication-date=June 1985 |publisher=Fine Scroll |location=Bromley, UK |issn=0306-5634}}</ref> and armament data from ''Air International, Vol. 24, Issue 1''.<ref>Fricker (1983), pp. 10–11</ref>
|prime units?=met
<!--
        General characteristics
-->
|crew=2
|length m=9.86
|length note=
|span m=11.14
|span note=
|height m=3.4
|height note=
|wing area sqm=19.4
|wing area note=
|aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|airfoil='''root:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA 63A415]]; '''tip:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA 63A212]]<ref name="Selig">{{cite web |last1=Lednicer |first1=David |title=The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url=https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website=m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date=16 April 2019}}</ref>
|empty weight kg=1810
|empty weight note=
|gross weight kg=
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight kg=3175
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity={{convert|694|L|USgal impgal}}<ref name=Pen1999>{{cite journal |last=Penney |first=Steward |editor-last=Reed |editor-first=Carol |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1999/1999%20-%202388.html |title=Military Aircraft – Part 2 |journal=Flight International |issue=4689 |volume=156 |page=67 |publication-date=17 August 1999 |publisher=Reed Business Information |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 |access-date=15 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141101221508/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1999/1999%20-%202388.html |archive-date=1 November 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|more general=
<!--
        Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number=1
|eng1 name=[[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-25C]]
|eng1 type=[[turboprop]] engine
|eng1 kw=552
|eng1 note=<ref name="PTTC">{{cite web|url=http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgMakeModel.nsf/0/90c641493420043b8625752f006482e8/$FILE/E4EA_rev24.pdf|title=Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 Series Type Certificate|publisher=U.S. Department of Transportation|access-date=5 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100910145359/http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgMakeModel.nsf/0/90c641493420043b8625752f006482e8/$FILE/E4EA_rev24.pdf|archive-date=10 September 2010|url-status=live}}</ref>

|prop blade number=4
|prop name=constant-speed propeller
|prop dia m=<!-- propeller aircraft -->
|prop dia note=

<!--
        Performance
-->
|max speed kmh=458
|max speed note=at {{convert|4115|m|ft|0}}
|cruise speed kmh=441
|cruise speed note=
|stall speed kmh=124
|stall speed note=
|never exceed speed kmh=539
|never exceed speed note=
|range km=1916
|range note=
|combat range km=
|combat range note=
|ferry range km=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling m=8750
|ceiling note=
|g limits=<big>+</big>6 <big>/-</big>3
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|climb rate ms=
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|wing loading kg/m2=164
|wing loading note=
|fuel consumption kg/km=
|power/mass=
|more performance=<!--<br />
*'''Take-off run:''' {{cvt||m|0}}
*'''Take-off run to {{cvt|15|m|0}}:''' {{cvt||m|0}}
*'''Landing run:''' {{cvt||m|0}}
*'''Landing run from {{cvt|15|m|0}}:''' {{cvt||m|0}}-->
<!--
        Armament
-->
|guns=
** '''[[Gun pod]]s:'''
*** AN/M-B machine gun
*** 12,7 mm machine gun
*** 7,62 mm machine gun (500 rounds)
** '''Rocket Machine Gun pod:'''
*** RMP LC with a 12.7mm [[M3P]] and (4x) 70 mm<ref>{{cite web |url=http://weaponsystems.net/weapon.php?weapon=HH13+-+HMP |title=Munition / PODS / HMP |publisher=Weapons Systems |access-date=28 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525201841/http://weaponsystems.net/weapon.php?weapon=HH13+-+HMP |archive-date=25 May 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|rockets=
** 127 mm [[HVAR]] ground rockets
** '''Rocket pods:'''
*** SBAT (7x) 37 mm
*** SBAT (7x) 70 mm
|bombs=
** '''[[General-purpose bomb]]:'''
*** [[Mark 81 bomb|Mk 81]]
*** [[Mark 82 bomb|Mk 82]]<ref name=W&G/>
** '''Practice bomb:'''
*** MK 76 (20 lb)
* '''Others:'''
** '''Ferry tanks:''' 2x {{convert|660|L|USgal}}<ref name=W&G>Warwick and Gaines (1983), p 32</ref> or {{convert|330|L|USgal}}<ref name="Hale p27">Hale (2002), p. 27</ref>
|hardpoints= 4 under-wing pylons
|hardpoint capacity= 1,000&nbsp;kg (2,200 lb)

|avionics=
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation|Brazil}}
{{aircontent
|see also=
* [[Flying Legend Tucano Replica]]
|related=
* [[Short Tucano]], a UK licensed version used by the [[RAF]] and others
* [[Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[KAI KT-1]]
* [[TAI Hürkuş]]
* [[Pilatus PC-7]]
* [[Pilatus PC-9]]
* [[Fuji T-7]]
* [[Utva Lasta]]
* [[PZL-130 Orlik]]
* [[T-6 Texan II]]
|lists=<!-- relevant lists that this aircraft appears in: -->
* [[List of aircraft of the Argentine Air Force]]
* [[List of active Brazilian military aircraft]]
* [[List of aircraft of the Egyptian Air Force]]
* [[List of aircraft of the Iranian Air Force]]
* [[List of active United Kingdom military aircraft]]
}}

==References==
===Notes===
{{Reflist|30em}}

===Bibliography===
{{refbegin}}
* {{cite book |last=Alfonzo |first=Adolfo |date=10 May 2003 |title=Embraer EMB.312 Tucano |edition=1st |language=es |url=http://www.ecsbdefesa.com.br/defesa/fts/Tucano.pdf |access-date=3 February 2012 |archive-date=1 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141101192736/http://www.ecsbdefesa.com.br/defesa/fts/Tucano.pdf |url-status=dead }};
* {{cite journal|last=Fricker |first=John |editor-last=Green |editor-first=William |title=Embraer's Tractable Tucano |journal=Air International |volume=24 |issue=1 |location=Bromley, UK |pages=7–14 |publisher=Fine Scroll |publication-date=January 1983 |issn=0306-5634 }};
* {{cite journal |last=Hoyle |first=craig |editor-last=Morrison |editor-first=Murdo |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/90190/world-air-forces-2011-2012.pdf |title=World Air Forces Directory |journal=Flight International |issue=5321 |volume=180 |pages=26–52 |publication-date=13 December 2011 |publisher=Reed Business Information |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 }};
* {{cite journal |last=Latham |first=Peter |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1982/1982%20-%200183.html |title=Brazil's fighter-pilot trainer |journal=Flight International |issue=3794 |volume=121 |pages=180–182 |publication-date=23 January 1982 |publisher=I.P.C. Transport Press |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 }};
* {{cite journal |last1=Rivas |first1=Santiago |last2=Cicalesi |first2=Juan Carlos |title=Type Analysis: Embraer EMB-312/314 Tucano and Super Tucano |journal=International Air Power Review|volume=22|publication-date=2007 |location=Westport, Connecticut |publisher=AIRtime Publishing |isbn= 1-880588-79-X |issn=1473-9917 |pages=60–79}};
* {{cite journal|last=Swanborough |first=Gordon |editor-last=Green |editor-first=William |title=Embraer's New Trainer |journal=Air International |issue=6 |volume=18 |pages=290–291 |publication-date=June 1980 |publisher=Fine Scroll |location=Bromley, UK |issn=0306-5634 }};
* {{cite book |editor=Taylor, John W.R. |title=Jane's All the World's Aircraft 1988–89 |location=London |publisher=Jane's Information Group|year=1988 |isbn=0-7106-0867-5}};
* {{cite journal |last=Taylor |first=Bill |editor-last=English |editor-first=Malcolm |title=Flying Training Aircraft |journal=Air International |issue=5 |volume=56 |pages=298–300 |publication-date=May 1999 |location=Stamford, UK |publisher=Key Publishing |issn=0306-5634 }};
* {{cite journal|last=Trimble |first=Stephen |editor-last=Morrison |editor-first=Murdo |title=The Race to re-Arm a Region |journal=Flight International |issue=5333 |volume=181 |pages=42–45 |publication-date=20 March 2012 |location=Sutton, UK |publisher=Reed Business Information |issn=0015-3710}};
* {{cite journal |last1=Warwick |first1=Graham |last2=Gaines |first2=Mike |editor-last=Mason |editor-first=David |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1983/1983%20-%201204.html |title=New developments in trainers |journal=Flight International |issue=3869 |volume=124 |pages=26–32 |publication-date=2 July 1983 |publisher=I.P.C. Transport Press |location=Sutton, UK |issn=0015-3710 }};
{{refend}}

==External links==
{{commons category|Embraer EMB 312 Tucano}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120508210250/http://centrohistorico.embraer.com.br/en/historia-aeronaves/emb-312-tucano.htm Embraer Histocal Center]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120327234636/http://esquadrilhadafumaca.com.br/quem-somos/aeronaves.html Smoke Squadron]
* [http://www.galeon.com/aviacionperucenepa/tucanos.html Peruvian Tucanos] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726150042/http://www.galeon.com/aviacionperucenepa/tucanos.html |date=26 July 2011 }}
* [http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?aircraft_genericsearch=Embraer%20EMB-312%20Tucano Tucano photos at airliners.net]
* [http://www.rudnei.cunha.nom.br/FAB/en/t-27.html History of Brazilian Air Force] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141101194006/http://www.rudnei.cunha.nom.br/FAB/en/t-27.html |date=1 November 2014 }}

{{Embraer}}
{{FAB aircraft designations}}
{{JPATS}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Embraer Emb 312 Tucano}}
[[Category:1980s Brazilian military trainer aircraft]]
[[Category:Embraer aircraft]]
[[Category:Single-engined tractor aircraft]]
[[Category:Counter-insurgency aircraft]]
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[[Category:Articles containing video clips]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1980]]
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear]]