Tunisian Air Force expands fleet with 12 Subaru Bell 412EPXs
The multi-role aircraft will bolster Tunisia’s growing fleet of 39 Bell helicopters, supporting military and security operations with enhanced payload and mission capability
At the Paris Air Show 2025, Bell announced a signed purchase agreement for 12 Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopters with the Tunisian Air Force, marking the first regional order for this Bell 412 variant. These aircraft will support multi-role military and security missions, expanding Tunisia’s rotary-wing fleet to 39 Bell helicopters, including Bell UH-1s, 205s, and OH-58s.
“The Bell 412 is one of the most trusted platforms globally, and we are honored to support the Tunisian Air Force as it expands its fleet with this proven and versatile aircraft,” said Tim Evans, Managing Director for Middle East and Africa, Bell. “The Subaru Bell 412EPX has been gaining momentum as an international military platform. We’re thrilled to bring it to the Middle East and Africa region with the Tunisian Air Force.”
The Bell 412 is recognized for its adaptability and reliability, enabling operators to undertake a broad range of missions. To date, more than 54% of the global Bell 412 fleet performs parapublic and military missions. This sale builds on recent entries of the Bell 412 to the Japan Coast Guard, San Diego Fire-Rescue, Croatia Ministry of the Interior, Sarajevo Canton Ministry of the Interior, and more.
The Subaru Bell 412EPX boasts a maximum internal weight of 12,200lb, external weight of 13,000lb, and cargo hook capacity of 5,000lb. The platform enables critical missions with a useful load of 5,385lb.
Bell Textron recently received approval from Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) for the operation of the Subaru Bell 412EPX in Canadian airspace.
Chloe Fox
Chloe Fox is an Senior Editorial Assistant for Voyageur Group, joining in 2024. She writes for AirMed&Rescue and ITIJ, covering a range of topics including international travel and health insurance, medical assistance provision, and air medical transportation. Chloe holds a BA (Hons) in English and an MA in English Literature from the University of Bristol.