Brazilian Air Force A-29 Super Tucano aircraft once again intercepted aircraft coming from Venezuela

As part of the sustained airspace control and surveillance scheme over the Amazon, Embraer A-29 Super Tucano attack aircraft of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) once again intercepted an irregular aircraft coming from Venezuela over the state of Roraima. The incident, which occurred on December 19, took place within the so-called Air Defense Identification Zone (ZIDA 41), located over the Yanomami Indigenous Territory, an area where illegal air incursions have become recurrent in recent months.

During the operation, coordinated by the Space Operations Command (COMAE), A-29 Super Tucano aircraft were deployed alongside an Embraer E-99 airborne early warning aircraft, all operating within the framework of the Brazilian Air Defense System (SISDABRA). Radar systems detected a Cessna 182P flying without a flight plan or identifiable registration, prompting the activation of Airspace Control Measures (MPEA) in accordance with Decree No. 5,144. After being intercepted, the aircraft carried out a forced landing on a dirt runway south of the municipality of Amajari, where it was found abandoned and with structural damage.

The Air Force dispatched an H-60 Black Hawk helicopter to apply Ground Control Measures (MCS), confirming that the pilot had fled the scene. This action took place under Operation ZIDA 41, aimed at strengthening airspace security over the Amazon through cooperation between the FAB and public security agencies—a task of growing importance given the increase in illicit air traffic.

The recent interception adds to a series of similar operations carried out by the Air Force throughout 2025. In November, another aircraft originating from Venezuela was detected in the same region and forced to land by A-29 Super Tucanos, while in September a twin-engine aircraft crashed into the Balbina Dam after disobeying the intercepting aircraft’s orders. These incidents reflect the ongoing pattern of irregular flights crossing Brazil’s northern border.

The use of the Super Tucano has been particularly notable this year, not only in air interdiction missions but also in high-profile deployments during major international events. In July, A-29s were assigned to the air defense operation for the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, where they intercepted three aircraft that violated restricted airspace. More recently, in November, they took part in the Belém Leaders’ Summit, operating alongside F-5M fighters, E-99 aircraft, and KC-390 Millennium tankers, in a security framework that included exclusion zones and counter-drone systems.

These precedents highlight the valuable role played by the Super Tucano within the FAB’s strategic framework: on the one hand, as a combat and advanced training platform; and on the other, as a key asset for airspace control in both national security operations and events of diplomatic significance.

In a context where the protection of air borders is essential to Brazilian sovereignty, the FAB continues to reinforce its presence in the Amazon region through an integrated structure of early detection, rapid response, and interagency coordination. Through successive interceptions and joint operations, Brazil reaffirms its determination to combat illicit activities that threaten the country’s air and territorial security.

Cover image for illustrative purposes. Image credits: Brazilian Air Force.

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