Greece to Enhance Air Force with F-35s and Rafales Amid Turkey Rivalry
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.
