AT-6 Texan Iis for Mali? Indigenous Airpower and the Trans-Sahara Counter Terrorism Initiative

Would the sale/transfer of AT-6 Texan IIs-a light-attack version of the new, reasonably-priced, flight trainer-to the country of Mali, along with the requisite training, help further U.S. goals in the Pan-Sahara region? The researcher will explore this question, propose an option, and endeavor to energize discussion towards a solution.


Mali's security challenges are not unique. Many countries in Africa and around the world have long, porous borders. The lawless quickly exploit these regions, whether their aims are local crime or international terror. Mali and its neighbors have lived with this reality for years. Now the U.S. shares their concern. The Sub Saharan Africa has been dubbed the next front in the war on terror. America quickly met the security challenge and, since 2002, has partnered with Mali to find a lasting solution. However, a pivotal tool missing from the efforts thus far is airpower.