Short Brothers
S.312 Tucano
The Short 312 Tucano is a British‑manufactured, licence‑built version of the Brazilian EMB‑312, produced by Short Brothers at Belfast from 1986 to 1994. Developed to replace the aging de Havilland Chipmunk and Jet Provost trainers of the Royal Air Force, the aircraft entered service as the “Tucano” and was later designated the “Tutor” for RAF pilot training. Over 190 airframes were delivered to the United Kingdom, Kenya, Thailand and a few other operators, demonstrating the type’s adaptability to diverse training environments.
Key features include a robust all‑metal low‑wing monoplane design, a retractable tricycle undercarriage, and a powerful 850 hp Pratt & Whitney PT6A‑25 turboprop engine that offers a high power‑to‑weight ratio and excellent climb performance. The cockpit is equipped with modern glass avionics, dual‑control sticks, and a simulated weapons system, enabling seamless transition from basic to advanced jet training. Its relatively low operating cost, forgiving handling, and capability for weapons‑delivery training made it a cost‑effective solution for air forces worldwide.
The Short 312 Tucano’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between propeller‑driven trainers and fast jet aircraft, shaping a generation of pilots and influencing subsequent trainer designs such as the Hawk and the newer turboprop platforms.
Key features include a robust all‑metal low‑wing monoplane design, a retractable tricycle undercarriage, and a powerful 850 hp Pratt & Whitney PT6A‑25 turboprop engine that offers a high power‑to‑weight ratio and excellent climb performance. The cockpit is equipped with modern glass avionics, dual‑control sticks, and a simulated weapons system, enabling seamless transition from basic to advanced jet training. Its relatively low operating cost, forgiving handling, and capability for weapons‑delivery training made it a cost‑effective solution for air forces worldwide.
The Short 312 Tucano’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between propeller‑driven trainers and fast jet aircraft, shaping a generation of pilots and influencing subsequent trainer designs such as the Hawk and the newer turboprop platforms.
Classification
Production & History
- First Flight
- 1986
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Manufacturer
- Short Brothers
- Engine
- TPE331
- Wikidata ID
- Q1039402