A trio of A-29 Super Tucano aircraft has arrived at Edwards Air Force Base, joining the fleet at the United States Air Force Test Pilot School (TPS).
The Air Force said in a release that this arrival is notable as it marks the first new aircraft assignment for the school in nearly three decades. Originally acquired by the Air Force Special Operations Command, these A-29s were reassigned to Edwards after being divested due to shifting mission requirements.
The A-29 Super Tucano was designed primarily as a low-cost close-air support aircraft, but its integration into the Test Pilot School’s fleet offers new opportunities for training and research. The decision to transfer these aircraft aligns with the broader strategic shift of the Air Force Test Pilot School, which aims to develop world-class staff, produce critical-thinking test leaders, and advance cutting-edge research to meet the needs of Global Power Competition.
Michael Banzet, director of Air Force Test Center plans and programs, emphasized the strategic value of the A-29s in expanding the capabilities at Edwards AFB. “The decision to transfer A-29 aircraft to Edwards is a result of thoughtful analysis by the Test Pilot School and an excellent example of command agility and collaboration to take advantage of a unique, fleeting opportunity,” said Banzet. “Not only does this repurpose a $63 million taxpayer investment, it also modernizes and expands TPS curriculum to accelerate the fielding of combat capability for the USAF.”
The A-29’s versatile airframe and modern avionics make it ideal for spin testing and integration with a range of multi-domain sensors and weapons. The aircraft’s ability to mount external equipment through various wing pylons will reduce TPS’s reliance on T-38 and F-16 aircraft, enhancing the school’s ability to conduct developmental test missions.
The arrival of these aircraft is part of the Air Force Test Pilot School’s evolving mission, which focuses on creating adaptive leaders and advancing research capabilities. The A-29s will play a crucial role in this mission, allowing the school to explore innovative approaches to flight test training and multi-domain operations.