Greek government approves purchase of 20 F-35 fighter jets from the US

Following the US approval last January for Greece to purchase up to 40 F-35 fighter jets at an estimated cost of 8.6 billion dollars, the Greek government has approved the purchase of the first 20 F-35 fighter jets for 3.5 billion dollars.

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, speaking during a visit to a military air base near the capital Athens, stated that the acquisition would create a "strong deterrent in the region," adding that a letter of acceptance for the deal had been signed and sent to the US.

While the US is expected to begin delivery of the first aircraft to Greece in 2028, Greece has an option to purchase an additional 20 F-35s as part of the estimated 8.6 billion dollar agreement.

Greek Government Spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis described the purchase as the most important step of "recent years" within the scope of Greece's military modernization, stating, "We will continue to implement this major program to equip our country and strengthen its defense."

Bridget Lauderdale, Vice President of Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-35s, and General Manager of the F-35 program, said, "It is an honor to continue our relationship as Greece becomes the 19th nation to join the F-35 program."

The countries currently in the F-35 program, either as participants or through sales, include the US, UK, Italy, Netherlands, Canada, Australia, Denmark, Norway, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Belgium, Poland, Singapore, Finland, Switzerland, Germany, Czechia, and Greece.

News Source: İHA