Embraer has recently started the AMX Mid Life Upgrade programme, after having formally received the first aircraft (A-1A 5530) to be upgraded on May 5, 2007. The project will eventually upgrade all surviving Brazilian Air Force (FAB) A-1A single-seaters and A-1B twin-seaters to A-1AM and A-1BM standard respectively.

The MLU programme will extend the operational life of the aircraft and improve its performance. Based on the knowledge gained by the ALX (A/T-29 Super Tucano) and F-5M programmes, the upgrade includes new avionics, sensors and weapons capability.

The FAB inventory currently holds 53 AMX aircraft, all of which are scheduled to be upgraded.