The USAF for a second time has selected the A-29 for the LAS mission.  In announcing the award, the Air Force stated “this award is the result of a full and open competition” and Lt. Gen. C.R. Davis, military deputy for acquisition in Air Force headquarters said, "I am confident that the source selection process was disciplined and meticulous."  Even Beechcraft’s CEO, Bill Boisture commented on the care and professionalism of the USAF’s selection process. In fact, this was a completely new evaluation process, conducted by a new team and overseen by a three-star general.

In evaluating the competitors, the U.S. Air Force looked at three criteria, in priority order: mission capability, past performance and pricing  in order to determine overall best value. 

The A-29 received an exceptional rating on technical capability and low-risk in all other categories.  Only the A-29 Super Tucano is operational and performing light air support missions today.  Its capabilities and long track record are fully known and demonstrated. The past performances of SNC and Embraer are equally strong and proven. Based on these factors we are confident  the Air Force selected the A-29 as the lowest risk solution for the U.S. and its partner nations and overall best value.

In accordance with the RFP, the US Air Force selected the A-29 based on three factors stated above, not just a single factor.  The U. S. Air Force determined that the price they are paying for the superior A-29 aircraft was part of the “overall best value.” We look forward to a rapid Government Accounting Office decision on Beechcraft’s protest.

The U.S. Air Force (USAF) has selected SNC and its partner Embraer Defence and Security for its Light Air Support (LAS) program  for the requirements of Afghanistan Air Force on february 27 2013. Under the initial $427.5m contract, the team will supply a total of 20 A-29 Super Tucanos, and will provide “one computer based trainer, one basic aviation training device, one flight training device, six mission planning stations, six mission debrief systems, long lead spares for interim contractor support, outside the continental United States base activation, site surveys, flight certification to U.S. Air Force military type certification standards, and data at the end of 2014.