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New AI-based technology provided by Valkyrie Aero to be added to the comprehensive A-29 sensors and weapons used to counter Unmanned Aerial Systems
Jacksonville, Florida, March 04, 2026 – Embraer (NYSE: EMBJ/ B3: EMBJ3), a global leader in the aerospace industry, and Valkyrie Aero are partnering to bring cutting-edge, Artificial Intelligence‑enabled Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capabilities to the A-29 Super Tucano through Valkyrie’s Gunslinger.
Valkyrie’s proprietary Gunslinger AI (Artificial Intelligence) suite enables real-time, enhanced C-UAS tactical decision making on the battlefield supporting the Find, Fix, Finish of unmanned threats. The Gunslinger is built for the evolving UAS threat landscape, ensuring an enduring and scalable solution. Valkyrie Aero’s Gunslinger further enhances the A-29 C-UAS capabilities that currently rely on existing, integrated sensors.
Militaries worldwide have invested enormous resources against disruptive and persistent unmanned threats by tasking high-end platforms such as mainstream fighter jets to counter drones with significant cost per mission. The A-29 equipped with Gunslinger offers extremely effective and low-cost counter drone capabilities, leveraging the Super Tucano’s advanced tandem cockpit, extended loiter time, and agility. Its ability to safely match the speed of one-way attack drones creates a stable, precise engagement platform for guns, guided rockets, and other effectors.
“We are proud to partner with Valkyrie to further enhance the A-29 C-UAS mission capabilities. With over 60,000 combat flight hours, the A-29 Super Tucano is the gold standard for light attack globally, and the ideal platform for manned C-UAS operations,” said Marcio Monteiro, Market Intelligence Vice-President of Embraer Defense & Security.
“Valkyrie is excited to partner with Embraer to deliver Gunslinger on the A-29 platform for customers worldwide. Gunslinger is born from the immediate needs of the frontline warfighter, whom Valkyrie trains and engages with every day,” said Chris Turner, Senior Vice President, Corporate Strategy of Valkyrie Aero.
About Embraer Defense & Security Inc.
Embraer Defense & Security Inc. (EDSI) is a subsidiary of Embraer Defense & Security, a leading aerospace and defense global company. In addition to the A-29 Super Tucano light attack and advanced trainer and the multi-mission KC-390 Millennium military airlifter and air-to-air refueler, it provides a full line of integrated solutions and applications such as Command-and-Control Center (C4I), ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), ground and space systems. With a growing presence on the global market, Embraer Defense & Security products and solutions are present in more than 60 countries.
EDSI assembles the A-29 Super Tucano in Jacksonville, FL for American and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers worldwide. EDSI also provides spare parts, services & support for the global A-29 FMS fleet.
Embraer is the leading manufacturer of commercial jets with up to 150 seats. The company maintains industrial units, offices, service, and parts distribution centers, among other activities, across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe.
About Valkyrie Aero:
Valkyrie Aero is a United States Department of Defense prime defense contractor and tactical technology firm at the forefront of air-to-air and air-to-ground defense solutions. Valkyrie delivers world class CCAS and pilot training programs securing strategic contracts with the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, NATO, and Partner Nations. The company has the largest contract available, mission-ready Tucanos in the world and is the only DoD contractor with an MFR/IFC (Military Flight Release) from both the USAF and USN for sensors and weapons release at night with Night Vision Goggles (NVGs). Valkyrie’s first-hand knowledge of constantly changing battlefield requirements enables it to deliver fast, responsive technology coupled with battle-tested hardware to address threats quickly. Valkyrie Aero combines Pentagon’s operational demands with Silicon Valley’s disruptive ethos.
