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Originally designed
by the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer, the Tucano was selected
in 1985 to replace the Jet Provost as the RAF basic trainer.
The development and production contract was awarded to Shorts of
Belfast under licence. The first squadron aircraft was delivered in
June 1988. Student training on the aircraft started at RAF Church
Fenton in December 1989.
The RAF version of the Tucano, designated the Tucano T1, has been
modified in many ways from the basic Embraer 312. A Garrett TPE 331
engine is fitted in place of the original PT6 and represents a 50%
power increase.
Fatigue life has been extended from 8,000 to 12,000 hours by fitting
strengthened wings and landing gear, a ventral air brake has been
added, plus a new canopy which is bird strike resistant up to 270
knots. The original RAF purchase was for 126 x Tucano. Two training
sorties can be completed before the aircraft requires refuelling.
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TUCANO T1 Specifications
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| Crew
|
2
|
| Length
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9.86m
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| Height
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3.40m
|
| Span
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11.28m
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| Max
Speed |
507kph
/315mph |
|
Service Ceiling |
8,750m |
| Range |
1,916kms |
| Engine
|
1,100shp Garrett TPE-331 turboprop |
In service with:
| 72 (R) |
30 x Tucano T1
|
RAF Linton -on-Ouse
(1 FTS) |
Photo Copyright
Alasdair Taylor
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