The Ministry of National Defence took delivery of 4 training aircraft on Monday at the Sfax Air Base as part of the cooperative effort with the United States to modernise the Air Force's fleet of T-6C training aircraft. The handover ceremony was presided over by Defence Minister Imed Memmich, with the notable presence of U.S. Ambassador to Tunis Joey Hood, and the U.S. Air Force Under Secretary, along with representatives from the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). Officials from the Ministry, including military and civilian personnel, were also in attendance at the event, according to the Defence Department. In his address, Imed Memmich stated that these aircraft will bolster the Air Force's operational capabilities in pilot combat training, enabling them to acquire advanced training capabilities thanks to their technical and operational features. He also emphasised that these aircraft will continue to support the air forces of friendly African nations. The Minister further commended the efforts of the U.S. administration in enhancing the military capacities of the national army, remarking that this solidifies the Tunisian-American relationship. In response, the U.S. Ambassador declared that the delivery of this initial batch of aircraft to the Air Force underscores the strength of the strategic relationship between the two countries. He assured that the U.S. remains committed to supporting the Ministry's endeavours in strengthening the Air Force's skills to address security challenges.
Source: Agence Tunis Afrique Presse