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BIZERTE, Tunisia  During a recent visit to the 32nd Air Unit in Bizerte Tunisia, members of an Allied Air Command Mobile Training Team (MTT), led by Lieutenant Colonel Oliever Schmitt, met with aircrew of this helicopter unit to discuss NATO air forces’ operational standards and the role of women in the armed forces.  

The operational roles of this helicopter unit are many ranging from air to land support, homeland security to medical evacuation. As in the whole of the Tunisian Armed Forces, both males and females serve together. On the occasion of the MTT visit, the team were able to meet with female serving personnel undergoing a wide range of duties.

We met with many different departments and all ranks on this highly professional air unit of the Tunisian Armed Forces

"During our stay we were able to meet with many different departments and all ranks on this highly professional unit. Part of our programme included highly professional presentations by female service personnel in key positions,” said the team leader Lieutenant Colonel Schmitt "It is very clear that in the Tunisian Armed Forces there is no discrimination and everyone has the opportunity to serve their country where possible. I was very impressed with the military bearing of those I have spoken to,” he added.

 Lieutenant Colonel Oliver Schmitt, German Air Force, the team lead of the Allied Air Command Mobile Training Team during his briefing for aircrew and staff of the Tunisian Armed Forces 32nd Air Unit in Bizerte Tunisia. Photo courtesy Tunisian Ministry of Defence

Females have been accepted into the Tunisian Armed Forces since the late 1960s with female aircrew graduating in the 70s. Their contribution to the defence and security of Tunisia continues to be essential. The military authorities see providing many positions and ensuring career development as a priority. 

NATO Allied Air Command MTTs regularly deploy to Partner to discuss Allied tactics, techniques and procedures in the Air domain to further develop Partnership programmes and cooperation.