The Tunisia expands transport capability with U.S. C-130H aircraft milestone marks a major boost to the country’s airlift operations. The Tunisian Air Force has officially received an additional military transport aircraft from the United States.
Nijatravel reports that the aircraft was delivered during a formal handover ceremony held on January 13, 2026, at Sidi Ahmed Air Base in Bizerte. Officials from both countries attended the event to reaffirm their long-standing defence partnership.
The aircraft is a Lockheed C-130 Hercules C-130H variant, widely recognised for its tactical airlift strength and reliability. It is designed for troop transport, cargo missions, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief operations.
This delivery represents the fourth C-130H transferred to Tunisia since 2021. With this addition, Tunisia’s Hercules fleet now includes multiple C-130 variants, enhancing operational flexibility.
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The Tunisia expands transport capability with U.S. C-130H aircraft development is expected to improve rapid deployment capacity. The aircraft will support joint military exercises, regional security operations, and emergency response missions.
At the ceremony, U.S. Ambassador Bill Bazzi and Tunisian Minister of National Defence Khaled Sehili highlighted the importance of continued collaboration. Both officials stressed the shared commitment to strengthening regional stability.
The transfer underscores more than four decades of defence cooperation between Tunisia and the United States. Military support programs have consistently aimed to modernise Tunisia’s defence infrastructure.
The C-130H platform is known for its durability in diverse environments. Its operational range and payload capacity make it suitable for missions across North Africa and beyond.
Analysts say the expanded fleet enhances Tunisia’s ability to respond quickly to crises. The aircraft’s versatility supports not only defence needs but also humanitarian and peacekeeping operations.
The Tunisia expands transport capability with U.S. C-130H aircraft acquisition signals a broader strategy to modernise air mobility assets. Strengthened airlift capacity is seen as essential for national security and international cooperation.
Observers believe the partnership will continue to drive technical upgrades and joint training programs. The addition of the aircraft further consolidates Tunisia’s role in regional security frameworks.
The Tunisian Air Force is expected to integrate the new aircraft into operational missions immediately. Officials say the enhanced fleet positions Tunisia for improved readiness and response efficiency.