Chinese Dongfeng Mengshi CSK-131 armored vehicles spotted in Tunisia.

In Tunisia, the presence of Dongfeng Mengshi CSK-131 armored vehicles, originating from China, has been observed in the capital city, Tunis. These vehicles are distinguishable by their digital camouflage and the display of the Tunisian flag, indicating that they are currently undergoing evaluation by the Tunisian armed forces.
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The Dongfeng CSK131 was spotted in Tunis. (Picture source: social media)

Besides the Chinese vehicles, the Tunisian military has incorporated a range of tactical vehicles into its fleet, mainly from Turkey. This includes the Vuran armored vehicles from BMC, used in various roles such as troop transport and medical evacuation. Tunisia also operates other Turkish armored vehicles like the BMC Kirpi and the Ejder Yalçin. In 2021, a significant contract was signed for the delivery of Kirpi mine-resistant vehicles and ambulances to Tunisia, making it one of the largest operators of Kirpi vehicles outside of Turkey.

The Dongfeng CSK131 is a light-protected vehicle developed by Dongfeng company as a private venture. It is an armored version of the Dongfeng EQ2050 tactical vehicle, which is widely used by the Chinese armed forces. At the time of its introduction, this vehicle was also called Mengshi, the Chinese word for "brave soldier". The CSK131 is commonly used by China's armed forces and is also available for export.

Equipped with an armored hull, the Dongfeng CSK131 provides effective protection to its passengers against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. This vehicle is sometimes seen with armored windscreen shutters. It offers total protection against 7.62x39 mm rounds fired from a distance of 100 meters, and its frontal arc can withstand hits from armor-piercing rounds of the same caliber. The Dongfeng CSK131 is considered China's equivalent of an armored Humvee.

The CSK131 can accommodate a driver and five passengers, with a payload capacity of 2,000 kg. It can be fitted with a shielded machine gun position or a remotely-controlled weapon station.

The vehicle is powered by an ISDe 200-41 turbocharged diesel engine producing 200 hp, which is a license-produced Cummins engine. It features a permanent all-wheel drive transmission and is fitted with a central tire inflation system. The vehicle also comes equipped with a self-recovery winch.

The addition of the Dongfeng Mengshi CSK-131 to the Tunisian military inventory indicates a strategic diversification of military suppliers and a step towards the modernization of its armed forces. These vehicles are expected to enhance the mobility and firepower of Tunisian troops, particularly in counter-terrorism and border security operations.