Embraer delivered the first upgraded AF-1 fighter jet designated AF-1B to Brazilian Navy, improving capability of its only attack aircra...
Embraer delivered the first upgraded AF-1 fighter jet designated AF-1B to Brazilian Navy, improving capability of its only attack aircraft.
The AF-1 is the Brazilian Navy designation for the McDonnell Douglas A-4 Skyhawk fighter, operating in a air defense role from sole aircraft carrier NAe São Paulo.
The structural and avionics upgrade covers 12 of these subsonic jets – nine AF-1 single-seaters and three AF-1A two-seaters, extending their operational life until 2025.
The upgraded aircraft features a glass cockpit with new navigation systems, tactical communication systems, sensor systems, a new Elta EL/M-2032 multi-mode radar, on-board oxygen generation system (OBOGS), hands-on throttle-and-stick (HOTAS), head-up display (HUD) and new weapon capability.
Brazil acquired the 23 A-4 Skyhawk fighter fleet from Kuwait in a $ 70 million deal in 1997. The jets were the last of those models built by Douglas in 1977.
