Tunisia strengthens ISR capabilities with new C-208B Grand Caravan EX aircraft

The Tunisian Air Force has significantly enhanced its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities with the recent acquisition of four Textron Aviation C-208B Grand Caravan EX aircraft from the United States. This strategic addition is aimed at strengthening Tunisia’s operational readiness in addressing both national and regional security challenges.

Ceremonial transfer

The official handover ceremony took place on September 9 at the Al-Auaina Air Base, a milestone in US-Tunisia defense cooperation. The event was attended by prominent figures including Tunisian Defense Minister Khaled Sehili, US Ambassador Joey Hood, Tunisian Air Force Chief of Staff General Mohammed Hajem, and Brigadier General Ricky Mills, Assistant Deputy Undersecretary of the US Air Force.

Minister Sehili stressed the crucial role of the aircraft in improving the ISR capabilities of the Air Force. “These aircraft will support the operational capabilities of the Air Force in the field of information, surveillance and reconnaissance due to their characteristics, accuracy in performing tasks and speed in transmitting data, which will help combat terrorism and transnational organized crime and serve security and peace at the national and regional levels,” he stated.

Advanced ISR Configuration

The C-208B Grand Caravan EX aircraft are specially configured for ISR missions, equipped with advanced electro-optical gimbals, night vision capabilities, and other advanced surveillance equipment. Although unarmed, these aircraft are designed to deliver critical real-time data and intelligence, enhancing Tunisia’s ability to monitor and respond to a variety of threats.

Comprehensive support package

The $54 million deal includes not only the aircraft, but also a comprehensive support package including spare parts, flight training, technical drawings, logistical support and ground support equipment. This will ensure that the Tunisian Air Force can effectively maintain and operate the aircraft.

US-Tunisia Defense Cooperation

This acquisition is part of a broader U.S. initiative to provide multiple African countries with ISR capabilities through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. Tunisia joins other African countries such as Cameroon, Chad, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda and Uganda that are benefiting from this program.

Last year, the United States approved the delivery of two more Textron 208 Grand Caravan EX aircraft for special missions over North Africa, bringing the total to four aircraft.

“The fleet will assist the Tunisian Air Force in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations in the country,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales for Textron Aviation.

ATI Engineering Services equipped the aircraft with an electro-optical/infrared sensor, tactical radio, control console, video data link and night vision lighting to meet the requirements.

D2 Government Solutions’ maintenance team provides training for Tunisian Air Force mechanics and technicians on the Cessna 208 in the United States.

Reports that Tunisia had acquired the unarmed special mission aircraft first emerged in 2019. The purchase is part of a US Department of Defense capacity building initiative, Section 333, in support of US Africom.

The first two special mission Textron C-208B Grand Caravan EX aircraft (N684EX and N692EX) arrived in Tunisia via Vatry, France on July 24.

The delivery of these aircraft is expected to significantly enhance Tunisia’s ISR capabilities and provide a crucial tool in the fight against terrorism and organised crime. As other African countries also upgrade their surveillance fleets, regional security and cooperation are likely to improve significantly.