First SUBARU Bell 412EPX Deal in Africa Announced at Paris Air Show 2025
Paris, June 16, 2025 – At the 2025 Paris Air Show, Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced a significant milestone: the signing of a purchase agreement with the Tunisian Air Force for 12 SUBARU Bell 412EPX helicopters. This marks the first order of the 412EPX variant in Africa and will support Tunisia’s ongoing modernization of its military rotary-wing fleet.
The new aircraft will serve in multi-role military and security missions, expanding Tunisia’s current fleet of 39 Bell helicopters, which includes the Bell UH-1, 205, and OH-58 models.
“The Bell 412 is one of the most reliable and versatile helicopter platforms worldwide. We are proud to support the Tunisian Air Force as it strengthens its capabilities with this proven aircraft,” said Tim Evans, Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Bell. “The SUBARU Bell 412EPX continues to gain traction as a global military platform, and we’re excited to see it debut in the Middle East and Africa.”
Renowned for its performance, dependability, and mission flexibility, the Bell 412 platform is trusted by governments and organizations across the globe. Over 54% of Bell 412 helicopters worldwide are engaged in military or public safety operations. Recent additions to the 412 customer base include the Japan Coast Guard, San Diego Fire and Rescue, and various interior ministries in Croatia and Sarajevo Canton.
The SUBARU Bell 412EPX offers enhanced payload capabilities, with a maximum internal weight of 12,200 lbs, external load capacity of 13,000 lbs, and a cargo hook capacity of 5,000 lbs. It supports critical missions with a useful load of 5,385 lbs, making it an ideal platform for a wide range of defense and security tasks.
