The U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School (TPS) at Edwards Air Force Base has officially launched flight training operations with the A-29C Super Tucano, incorporating the light-attack aircraft into its student curriculum for the first time.
Three A-29C aircraft, previously evaluated by Air Force Special Operations Command and stored at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, have now been transferred to Edwards. The aircraft are being used to support both instruction and data collection for research, as part of a modernization effort conducted in partnership with the Air Force Test Center and Sierra Nevada Corporation.
Unlike many platforms in the U.S. Air Force inventory, the A-29C has not been operated in regular service or had a formal training program. However, variants of the A-29 are widely flown by allied air forces for counterinsurgency and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft’s multirole capabilities and relatively simple design made it a candidate for expanded use in pilot instruction and systems testing.
The transfer to Edwards was carried out by three TPS instructors who piloted the aircraft without prior flight time in the type. Their preparation relied on studying manuals, consulting maintenance crews, and reviewing procedural publications. To gain familiarization, they also flew sorties in the T-6 Texan and PC-21—aircraft with similar flight characteristics.
Following delivery, the Super Tucanos underwent six months of maintenance and inspection. During this period, TPS staff developed detailed training procedures and assessed the platform’s instructional potential.
Initial use of the A-29C will focus on stall and spin training—a fundamental requirement for all TPS graduates. While glider and F-16 flights have traditionally been used for this purpose, instructors say the A-29C offers greater maneuver variety and extended endurance, improving the learning experience for a broader range of students.
The curriculum will later expand to cover the aircraft’s mission systems. The A-29C can carry an MX-15 sensor, link with tactical networks like Link 16 and VORTEX, and employ laser-guided munitions. Using the Super Tucano for systems training is expected to reduce demand on the F-16 fleet, which currently supports these activities.
Additional modifications are underway to enable telemetry and control room integration. TPS is also evaluating the possible integration of the Agile Pod to further enhance testing capabilities. With five weapon stations and a second cockpit equipped for systems management, the aircraft may also be used for future manned-unmanned teaming concepts and cross-platform training.
Class 25A is scheduled to be the first TPS student group to fly the A-29C as operational use expands over the summer.
(Source: Eglin Air Force Base, July 7, 2025)