The C-4C Açor was the final and most advanced variant of the C-4 family, developed by IPA in the late 1960s based on combat experience from the Portuguese Colonial War. Optimized for the fighter-bomber role, the C-4C featured a reinforced airframe, improved strike-oriented avionics and a single-seat cockpit tailored for frontline operations.The aircraft entered service in 1968 and became a key asset in Portuguese air operations in Africa, particularly with Squadron 712 “Panteras” based in Guinea-Bissau. Known for its reliability and ease of maintenance, the C-4C remained in frontline service with the Portuguese Air Force until its official retirement in 1985, when it was replaced by more modern aircraft.The C-4C also achieved notable export success. Spain operated 36 aircraft until 1990, Brazil used approximately 60 units until 2002, and the Netherlands flew 24 aircraft until 1988, primarily in ground-attack and training roles.The C-4C Açor stands as the definitive evolution of the C-4 lineage and one of Portugal’s most successful combat aircraft designs.