Tunisia Commissions Two U.S.-Donated Island-Class Patrol Boats to Boost Mediterranean Security.

On April 17, 2025, the Tunisian Navy held a commissioning ceremony for two 110-foot (34-meter) American Island-class patrol boats at the naval base in La Goulette, near Tunis. These vessels were recently transferred from the United States as part of a broader U.S. commitment to support Tunisia’s maritime security and regional stability. The ceremony took place during a port visit by the USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20), the flagship of the U.S. Sixth Fleet, symbolizing the strong and long-standing maritime cooperation between the two countries.
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Tunisian Navy officers stand at the front of the two newly commissioned Island-class patrol boats during a ceremony at La Goulette Naval Base on April 17, 2025. (Picture source: U.S. DoD)

The transfer of the two American Island-class patrol boats marks a significant milestone in the U.S.-Tunisia defense relationship. These ships were originally part of the U.S. Coast Guard fleet and were refurbished and modernized before their delivery to Tunisia. Their commissioning into the Tunisian Navy is a critical step forward in enhancing the country’s maritime capabilities. Each Island-class patrol boat is 34 meters in length, powered by twin diesel engines, capable of reaching speeds up to 29.5 knots, and has a range of over 3,000 nautical miles. They are armed with a 25mm Mk 38 machine gun and two .50 caliber machine guns, and outfitted with advanced radar and navigation systems. These capabilities will allow Tunisia to significantly improve its maritime patrol, border control, counter-smuggling, and search and rescue missions.

This transfer is not an isolated act but part of a continuous series of U.S. military assistance to Tunisia. Over the years, the United States has provided equipment, training, and logistical support aimed at strengthening Tunisia's defense forces and their ability to respond to both traditional and asymmetric threats. These contributions are critical given Tunisia's strategic location along the Mediterranean and its proximity to conflict zones in North Africa. The Island-class boats are expected to play a central role in Tunisia’s maritime strategy, particularly in controlling illicit trafficking, safeguarding economic exclusive zones, and enhancing coastal surveillance operations.

Vice Admiral J.T. Anderson, Commander of the U.S. Sixth Fleet, praised the commissioning as a testament to the growing cooperation between the U.S. and Tunisian naval forces. He noted that strong maritime partnerships are key to promoting regional security and that the United States remains committed to supporting Tunisia’s defense modernization efforts.

The timing of this commissioning also carries symbolic weight, aligning with the 220th anniversary of the 1805 Battle of Derna, in which the U.S. military, with the support of Tunisian allies, defeated maritime threats that jeopardized Mediterranean commerce. This historical connection underscores the depth of the U.S.-Tunisian defense relationship, which has evolved into a robust partnership encompassing counterterrorism, professional military education, joint exercises, and capacity-building programs.

U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia Joey Hood highlighted the historical and contemporary significance of the bilateral relationship. He emphasized that the commissioning of the patrol boats demonstrates a shared vision between the two countries for a stable and secure maritime environment, not only for Tunisia but for the broader Mediterranean region.

The commissioning by the Tunisian Navy of these Island-class patrol boats reflects Tunisia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its naval forces and the United States’ enduring support for Tunisia’s defense sector. This partnership enhances Tunisia’s ability to address evolving maritime threats and contributes to maintaining security and stability in the Mediterranean Sea.