The Argentine Flying Fortress: The Story of the FMA IA-58 Pucar

The Argentine Air Force developed the IA-58 Pucar counterinsurgency airplane in the 1960s to equip the force and offer it on the international market. Over 100 were produced and used by several countries, including during the 1982 South Atlantic war. Now, the Argentine Air Force plans to convert them into the Pucar F nix version with new engines and avionics for new missions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 12 May 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

In the vibrant decade of the 1960s, guerrilla forces emerged as a formidable presence across Latin America, Africa, and Asia, prompting the urgent need for specialized weapons to combat their unconventional tactics. Recognizing this growing threat, the Argentine Air Force approached the FMA factory with a request. They sought to equip their forces with a counterinsurgency airplane that not only addressed their domestic needs but also had the potential to be exported to other countries. After thorough analysis of various proposals, a remarkable final product emerged—the IA-58 Pucar. This robust twin turboprop aircraft was designed to operate from unprepared airstrips in extremely challenging conditions.

The IA-58 Pucar made its debut in the Argentine Air Force in 1975, and its production continued for several decades, resulting in over 100 aircraft being built. Throughout its service history, several versions were developed or proposed, each tailored to meet specific requirements. The plane gained international recognition when it participated in the 1982 South Atlantic war, showcasing its prowess and adaptability. It also saw combat action in Colombia and Sri Lanka, further solidifying its combat capabilities.

However, the journey of the IA-58 Pucar did not end with its military service. The Argentine Air Force has plans to convert the original version into the Pucar F nix version, equipped with new engines and advanced avionics. This modernization will enable the plane to undertake new missions, such as intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. While some aspects of the plane's story have been widely documented in various publications, many unknown proposed versions and details of its operational record remain untold. This comprehensive account seeks to shed light on the remarkable journey of the IA-58 Pucar, from its inception to its current state, and its impact on the military landscapes of Argentina and the countries it served.

Weight: 776g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399097925