The trainer that taught the world. Brazil set out in 1979 to build a simple, low-cost basic trainer — and Embraer delivered something better: the EMB-312 Tucano, the tandem-seat turboprop whose big canopy, jet-style cockpit and honest handling became the international template for basic training aircraft. First flown in 1980 and delivered from 1983, the Tucano trained pilots across South America, Africa and beyond, flew counter-insurgency missions with hardpoints fitted, and sired the famous Super Tucano that still patrols today. HobbyBoss captures the type in 1/48 with 160+ parts, clear parts for that generous tandem canopy, and a photo-etched fret for the fine details.

A Satisfying Mid-Size Build

Six sprues of light grey styrene build into a 207mm-long airframe with a 232mm wingspan — the sweet spot of 1/48: big enough for cockpit detail to show through the glasshouse, compact enough for any shelf. Trainers reward careful cockpit work more than most subjects, since the tandem office is the aircraft's story, and the clear mouldings put it all on display. Paint and cement are required, as with all plastic kits.

The Embraer Tucano — Know Your Variant

One distinction matters here: this kit is the original Embraer-built EMB-312 — the Brazilian and export standard — not the licence-built Short Brothers Tucano flown by the RAF, which carried a different engine and detail changes. Build it for Brazil, France's air force, or any of the type's South American and export operators, and it's spot on; RAF markings would belong to the other aircraft. It's the honest boundary that saves a repaint.

Specifications

Brand: HobbyBoss
SKU: HB81763
Subject: Embraer EMB-312 (EMB312) Tucano trainer
Scale: 1/48
Parts: 160+ across 6 sprues, plus clear parts and photo-etch
Built Size: 207.2mm long · 231.8mm wingspan
Needed to Complete: Plastic cement and paints
Related: HobbyBoss also kits the EMB-314 Super Tucano