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Encyclopedia - FMA IA-58 Pucara
Development of the FMA Pucara began in 1966 by the Fabrica Militar de Avionica led by Vice-Comodoro Hector E. Ruiz. The first prototype was a glider, and the prototype with engines (American Garret turboprops) first flew on 20 August 1969. Production was hampered by the lack of facilities and money, but deliveries to the FAA eventually began in 1976. The French Astazou XVIG engine was chosen for the production version, driving Ratier-Forest propellers.
The Pucara was designed for the COIN role, and various measures were taken to improve its combat survivability. The cockpit floor was armour-plated, the windscreen made bulletproof and controls added to both cockpits. The landing gear was built to withstand operation from small unpaved airstrips.
The Pucara served with Argentina, Colombia and Uruguay.
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FMA IA-58A Pucara | General | | Crew : | Two | | First Flight : | 20 August 1969 | Powerplant | | Number Of Engines : | Two | | Powerplant type : | Turboméca Astazou XVIG single-shaft turboprops | | Max Power Rating : | 729kW (978shp) | Dimensions | | Length : | 14.52m (46ft 9.1in) | | Height : | 5.36m (17ft 7.1in) | | Wingspan : | 14.50m (47ft 6.9in) | | Wing Area : | 30.30m2 (326.1sq ft) | | Wing Sweep At Quarter Cord : | 0 degrees | | Tailplane Span : | 4.70m (15ft 5in) | Weights | | Empty Weight : | 4,020kg (8,862lb) | | Max Take-off Weight : | 6,800kg (14,991lb) | | Internal fuel load : | 1,000kg (2,205lb) | | External Fuel Load : | 1,280kg (2,822lb) | | Maximum external load : | 1,500kg (3,307lb) | Landing Gear | | Type : | Retractable tricycle type with twin-wheel main units and a single wheel nose unit | | Wheelbase : | 3.48m (11ft 5in) | | Wheel Track : | 4.20m (13ft 9.25in) |
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