Greece has agreed to allocate up to $4 billion for the upgrade of additional F-16 fighter jets, as well as to procure advanced missiles from the United States.
According to Reuters, citing two senior sources, Greece had already budgeted approximately 28 billion euros through 2036 for the acquisition of U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets and helicopters, as well as for the development of the “Achilles Shield.”
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
This is a multi-layered anti-ballistic and anti-aircraft defense system, which will include Israeli-made weapon systems.
“The agreement includes new advanced missiles and bombs for the F-16 Viper, F-35 fighter jets, and Black Hawk helicopters. It also includes the upgrade of older F-16 fighter jets to the Viper version,” a senior Defense Ministry official told Reuters.
The same official noted that most of these procurements have already been incorporated into the government’s multi-year defense plan and, therefore, is not expected to place an additional burden on public finances.
For his part, a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the information, while also noting that the related expenses will be spread out over several years.
Greece’s Deterrent Capability Is Being Strengthened
Marco Rubio stated on Wednesday in Athens that Greece and the U.S., as NATO allies, have agreed on a joint security plan that provides for the exchange of information between the law enforcement agencies of both countries with the aim of combating terrorism.
In 2024, Greece agreed to purchase 20 Lockheed Martin (LMT.N) F-35 fighter jets, as well as 35 Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters. At the same time, the upgrade of approximately 82 F-16s to the Viper version is underway, while the goal is to upgrade an additional 37 Block 50 aircraft to the same standard, at an estimated cost of approximately $1 billion.
According to the international news agency, the new defense spending is part of Greece’s overall effort to modernize and strengthen its armed forces following the prolonged economic crisis of 2009–2018, which was accompanied by strict austerity measures.
Greece allocates nearly 3.5% of its GDP to defense spending, a percentage that exceeds the average of several NATO member states. A key factor behind this high level of spending is the long-standing tension in relations with Turkey.
Greece and the U.S. issued a joint statement
According to the joint statement issued by the two countries immediately after the signing of the agreement, the purchase is part of Greece’s long-term defense planning, as well as the finalization of cooperation with the Florida National Guard and the transfer of Stryker armored vehicles.
At the same time, Athens and Washington agreed to expand cooperation in the fight against terrorism and illegal immigration.
On the economic front, emphasis is placed on investment screening, critical infrastructure, cybersecurity, and advanced technologies.
In the energy sector, the Vertical Natural Gas Corridor and hydrocarbon exploration were highlighted, while an agreement was signed for the certification of American seafarers on Greek ships.
The two countries also renewed their agreement on the protection of cultural heritage.
Source: iefimerida.gr
