First of 8 Trainer Aircraft Kicks Off USAF-Supported TAF Modernization

Textron delivered the first Beechcraft T-6C Texan II to the 13th Squadron at Sfax air base in Tunisia. 

The contract includes 8 T-6C aircraft, in-country field service, logistics support, program management, training for air/ground personnel, and interim contract support for the first year allowing a smooth handover. The deal also includes a number of parts required for continued operation, from engines to support gear. The deal will support the Tunisian Air Force's modernization efforts. 

“Textron Aviation Defense is honored the Tunisian Air Force has chosen the world’s best and most affordable military trainer — the legendary Beechcraft T-6C Texan II — as its next primary trainer,” said Fouad Kasri, director of Sales & Strategy for Africa and the Middle East, Textron Aviation Defense. “Tunisia is the thirteenth nation to acquire the T-6 and has now taken delivery of the 1,001st T-6 manufactured by our team in Wichita. We are delighted to welcome yet another North African and Mediterranean allied nation to the distinguished group of global air forces who rely on the next-generation T-6 Integrated Training System to achieve their pilot training objectives.”

Textron Aviation Defense collaborated with the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) and the U.S. Air Force Security Assistance Training Squadron (AFSAT) to support the Tunisian Air Force’s modernization and growth program.

“Becoming a regional leader in military flight training excellence is one of the milestones on the path to achieving our counter-terrorism and border security mission requirements,” said General Mohamed Hajjem, the Tunisian Air Force Chief of Staff. “We are grateful to Textron Aviation Defense, U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center and U.S. Air Force Security Assistance Training Squadron for supporting our acquisition of the Beechcraft T-6C Texan II, as well as our efforts to achieve territorial sovereignty and regional stability. This acquisition paves the way for additional bilateral engagements and strengthens our relationship with the United States.”

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