Air General and Commander of the Paraguayan Air Force (FAP), Julio Fullaondo, confirmed in a press conference that this coming August, the Helicopter Air Group (GAH) will receive four Bell UH-1H helicopters donated by the government of Taiwan.
The GAH currently operates UH-1H helicopters for humanitarian and transport missions within Paraguayan territory, meaning FAP pilots are already familiar with the aircraft. These helicopters will join a fleet that includes H125M, Robinson R66, Bell 407, and the recently reactivated Bell 427 helicopters.
“This is part of the process of strengthening our Armed Forces; it reflects our ongoing commitment to the defense and security of the nation. We will continue reinforcing our security and defense capabilities—this effort is a clear example of our forward-looking vision,” emphasized General Fullaondo.
Recently, the FAP added four new A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, acquired from Embraer. It will also receive refurbished mobile radars from Israel and is preparing to implement a new nationwide radar system purchased from Northrop Grumman in the United States.
“We are improving our training and operational capabilities, strengthening our presence in border areas and strategic zones. This allows us to detect, identify, and intercept irregular air traffic, thereby improving national security. This year, we added the fifth fully refurbished T-35 Pillán aircraft from ENAER, and we now have full availability of our AT-27 Tucano fleet,” the FAP Commander stated.
Training of new A-29 Super Tucano pilots and crews continues
At the Paraguayan Air Force’s Aerotactical Group, training continues under Embraer instructors for both ground and flight operations of the recently acquired A-29 Super Tucano attack aircraft, which will become part of the 2nd Fighter Squadron “Indios.”
The squadron’s name originates from the 11th Fighter Squadron of the Paraguayan Air Force’s Fiat C.R.20bis aircraft, which saw combat in 1933 during the Chaco War campaign against Bolivia, playing a crucial role in Paraguay’s victory.
Under the contract signed between the Paraguayan government and Embraer, the Brazilian company is training eight pilots and twelve mechanics, as well as providing one year of logistical support. In addition, non-commissioned technical personnel have already completed the General Familiarization Ground Course for the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft.
Photos: Paraguayan Air Force (FAP).
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