Greece is discussing with friends and allies possible defense purchases which could reach up to 10 billion euros ($12 billion) over the next decade, local media report on Tuesday, quoting unnamed officials in Athens.
According to the reports, funds amounting to 1-1.5 billion euros are expected to be disbursed in the coming months for the purchase of missiles, torpedoes and spare parts.
Greece’s Minister of State, Giorgos Gerapetritis, said on Tuesday that Athens is “in consultations” with allies to further strengthen its armed forces.
He added that the defense authorities have created what he called an “options menu,” saying “We already have the options menu for upgrading existing weapons systems and the purchase of new, under the financial constraints we have.”
Greece is reportedly in talks with France concerning the purchase of up to 18 Dassault-made Rafale fighter jets.
Reuters quotes a Greek defense official as saying: “We are in talks with France, and not only with France, in order to increase our country’s defense potential.Within this framework, there is a discussion which includes the purchase of aircraft.”
However, France has not yet confirmed the deal. “There is no agreement as written in several media. However, there are discussions on a number of subjects,” a French government source told Reuters, without providing further detail.
The Rafale is a twin-engine, multirole fighter aircraft, equipped with a wide range of weapons.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
