Greece to Enhance Air Force with F-35s and Rafales Amid Turkey Rivalry
Greece is enhancing its military capabilities by upgrading its F-16s and acquiring 24 Dassault Rafales and 20 F-35A Lightning II fighters to achieve air superiority in the Eastern Mediterranean by 2030, particularly in response to Turkey's military presence. The Hellenic Air Force aims to operate around 200 combat-ready aircraft, leveraging a larger fleet to deter Turkey amid ongoing geopolitical tensions stemming from historical conflicts.
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Greece is modernizing its military capabilities by upgrading its F-16s to 'Viper' standards and acquiring 24 Dassault Rafales and 20 F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters. This initiative aims to secure air superiority in the Eastern Mediterranean by 2030, countering Turkey, which was removed from the F-35 program due to its S-400 purchase.
The Hellenic Air Force operates approximately 227 fighters, more than France and the UK. By 2030, Greece plans to have around 200 combat-ready aircraft, comprising F-35A, F-16 Block 70/72, and Rafale F3R.
Greece's large air fleet serves as a deterrent against Turkey, which maintains a larger fighter fleet but lacks access to the F-35. The ongoing geopolitical tensions, highlighted by the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, continue to influence Greece's defense strategy.
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