The C295 and Super Tucano deals for its National Aeronaval Service were approved as part of an emergency procedure by the government on 11 March.
The Panama government has given the greenlight for the purchase of four Embraer A-29 Super Tucano aircraft and two Airbus C295 aircraft for its National Aeronaval Service (SENAN) in a deal worth US$187 million.
According to the Panama government, the contract for four Super Tucano aircraft is for around US$78 million, while the purchase of the C295 aircraft is for around $109 million.
The government stated that the approval of these two aircraft contracts was done via an exceptional process. They will be purchased with external financing that is still “being defined”, SENAN added.
Panama’s decision to acquire the A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft, marking its first operation of combat-capable planes, follows recent incidents involving the United States. In December 2024, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to reclaim control of the Panama Canal, alleging that Panama charged excessive tolls and expressed concerns over potential Chinese influence. These assertions were met with protests in Panama and reaffirmations of sovereignty by Panamanian officials. Therefore, the heightened tensions may have prompted Panama to reassess its defense posture, leading to the procurement of combat aircraft to enhance its national security and assert control over strategic assets.
The acquisition of the A-29 Super Tucanos marks the first time Panama will operate aircraft with combat capabilities. Since the disbandment of the Panamanian military in 1989, the country has relied on security agencies such as Senan, the National Police, and the National Border Service. The increase in unauthorized flights and organized crime activity in Panamanian airspace has been cited as a reason for enhancing air patrol capabilities. This purchase is considered a measure to strengthen aerial security operations.
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