Tunisia Recieves Last T-6C Trainers
The last of Tunisia’s T-6C trainer aircraft have been delivered. The contract for the trainers was signed in 2021. In 2019, the US Department of State approved the sale of 8 T-6C Texan II trainers, manufactured by Beechcraft under the Foreign Military Sales provision. The original FMS proposal had an estimated value of $234 million and included an option for the additional purchase of 4 trainers. The Texans will replace both Czech Aero L-59T Super Albatros and Italian SIAI-Marchetti SF.260 used within the ranks of No.13 Squadron in Thyna.
Tunisia finally decided the procurement of the T-6C platform in 2021 signing the initial deal for $12.5 million. In July 2022 The U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center awarded Textron Aviation a $90.7 million contract modification for the delivery of eight aircraft. The deal contained: spare engines, cartridge actuated devices/propellant actuated devices operational flight trainer, spare parts, ground handling equipment, support equipment, software delivery and support, publications and technical documentation, clothing, textiles, and individual equipment, aircraft ferry support, technical and logistical support services, site surveys, and other conveniences.
Tunis is interested in full-scale modernization of its air force with the aid of the United States. The ongoing process of selecting a suitable fighter jet has brought a lot of attention and competition including Saab, General Dynamics, and Aero. F-16s are one option which has been suggested, however, this is unconfirmed and with Tunisia’s President Kais Saied, described as becoming “an increasingly authoritarian leader”, it is unclear if the US would be willing to support the sale of more advanced aircraft to Tunis.
Tunisia is one of the several North African countries that is currently expanding and modernizing its air forces. In 2020 the neighboring state of Morocco finalized the purchase of 24 F-16 fighters from Lockheed Martin.