Tunisia Gets U.S. Nod to Procure 65’ SAFE Archangel Boats

The U.S. State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Tunisia of 65’ SAFE Archangel Boats and related elements of logistics and program support for an estimated cost of $110 million.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.

The Government of Tunisia has requested to buy additional non-MDE 65’ SAFE Archangel boats and additional non-MDE articles and services that will be added to a previously implemented case. The original FMS case, valued at $49.3 million, included non-MDE 65’ SAFE Archangel boats and non-MDE articles and services, consisting of commercial variant marine global positioning systems; navigation systems; communications equipment; training; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated total cost is $110 million.

This proposed sale will support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by helping to improve the security of a major non-NATO ally that continues to play an important role in regional security and Peacekeeping Operations throughout Africa, the Pentagon said in a release.

The Tunisian Navy uses the 65’ SAFE boats for search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, and other maritime-related operations to ensure security in the country and region. The boats will build on Tunisia’s existing military capability.

The principal contractor is SAFE Boats International, located in Bremerton, Washington.