The European Union (EU) is launching the development of a multifunctional light turboprop FMLA aircraft designed to combine the versatility of the “Super Tucano” while making the aircraft low-visibility and economically efficient.
According to Elchi.az, referring to Defense Express, the FMLA (“Future Multirole Light Aircraft”) project received 15 million euros in financial support within the framework of the European Defense Fund’s 2026 program.
According to the documents of the European Defense Fund, the new aircraft should not repeat existing turboprop models, but should perform tasks such as direct fire support, drone interception, reconnaissance, strike coordination and target designation.
In addition, the possibility of adapting the FMLA to civilian missions, including search and rescue operations, is emphasized. The light aircraft should be equipped with a turboprop engine, have a take-off weight of up to 7.5 tons and be able to take off and land in a short distance from 450-meter strips. Special attention is paid to modern materials and technologies that reduce radar visibility, resistance to electronic warfare, their own radar systems and “adaptive camouflage” means. At the same time, the device must maintain its effectiveness in difficult climatic conditions and meet environmental standards.
The FMLA is intended for low-intensity conflicts, operations in which enemy air defense systems are weakened, and missions “below the threshold of open conflict”. In fact, this aircraft will be an accessible and affordable solution for countries that cannot afford to buy modern combat vehicles. Experts say that the concept is reminiscent of Embraer’s Super Tucano model, but the low visibility requirement distinguishes it – combining a turboprop engine with stealth technologies is a complex engineering task.
The supply perspective of the new aircraft has been postponed to 2035–2040, which turns the project into a long-term initiative for European aviation.