Embraer EMB 312 Tucano - Design

Design

Many features of the EMB-312 became standard in later basic training aircraft designs. It was the first turboprop trainer developed from the beginning with military jet capability. A Martin-Baker Mk8L was fitted, making the EMB-312 the world's first trainer aircraft fitted with an ejection seat. It was Embraer's first aircraft with tandem seats designed with a raised rear seat optimized for an uninterrupted view from rear cockpit and frameless bubble canopy for unobstructed visibility. Major aircraft features include an automatic torque control system and the jet-like single-lever throttle which combine both engine power and propeller pitch, assuring smooth and rapid acceleration and deceleration

A retractable tricycle undercarriage is fitted with steerable nosewheels, allowing a fairly large crab angle during cross wind landing. The reverse pitch control in which it is fitted, allows the constant-speed mechanism to be manually overridden to reverse the blade pitch angle, thus providing excellent ground handling characteristics, helping to slow down the plane to shorten the landing run. This control also allows the aircraft to back up on its own during taxiing.

High maneuverability, stability at low speeds, and four underwing pylons providing for up to 1,000 kg (2,200 lb) of ordnance, allow the training aircraft to engage in tactical bombing campaigns in low intensity conflict or counterinsurgency environments and in counternarcotics interceptions. The type can carry up to 694 litres (183 US gal) of internal fuel supply, additionally, two fuel tanks of 660 litres (170 US gal) each can be accommodated at underwing weapon stations for extended endurance, enabling up to nine flight hours.