The last of an order for 24 Rafale aircraft for the Hellenic Air Force landed at the Tanagra military base on Thursday, delivered to Greece by France.
Greece had initially ordered 18 Rafale aircraft, with another 6 such fighter jets added (version 4.5).
The fighter airplanes have been incorporated in 332 Squadron, part of the 114 Combat Wing, replacing the M-2000 aircraft.
Greek Rafale aircraft take part in NATO-related and national Armed Forces exercises. They have also been included in the weekly scheduling of aircraft on high alert.
Rafale jets would enhance Greece’s defense
The Rafale is a French twin-engine, multi-role fighter aircraft designed and built by Dassault Aviation. It is a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter known for its advanced avionics, weaponry, and versatility and is likely to enhance Greece’s defense capabilities.
The Rafale’s armament includes Meteor long-range air-to-air missiles, MICA EM, and IR missiles, SCALP EG cruise missiles, and Exocet AM39 Block 2 Mod 2 air-to-surface missiles. It also carries precision weapons such as the GBU 12/16/24 and AASM, along with a 30 mm gun.
Defense analysts say the acquisition of Rafales serves as a strong deterrent, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions with Turkey. Turkey operates F-16s and is developing indigenous fighter capabilities, but the Rafale’s superior technology could give Greece a strategic edge.
However some point out that operating and maintaining Rafales is expensive, and sustaining a high operational tempo could strain defense budgets. In addition, pilots and ground crews will require time and training to fully exploit the Rafale’s potential.
In July 2021 Greece received the first Rafale jet from France following the 2.3 billion-euro ($2.8 billion) deal.
Greece to also acquire US-made F-35s
By 2030, the Air Force plans to have three types of fighters. These will include F-35s, F-16 Vipers, and Rafales, with a total of 200 aircraft.
In July 2024 Greece finalized its intention to procure 20 Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II aircraft by signing a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) through a U.S. government Foreign Military Sale. The LOA also includes an option for 20 additional aircraft.
In January 2024 the U.S. State Department approved the potential sale of up to forty F-35 fighter jets and respective equipment to Greece in an $8.6 billion deal.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said in a video statement that, as part of the deal, the Greek state will also receive significant military aid at no extra cost. This would include frigates, C-130 transport aircraft, armored tanks, and vehicles.
“This is the result of a methodical, quiet and long effort, which combined Greece’s consistency as an ally on the international fronts with the promotion of its national interests,” said the Greek PM. “A result which consolidates, at the same time, the dynamic and independent Greek-American strategic relationship.”
Mitsotakis’ official request to the US for the purchase of twenty Lockheed Martin-made F-35 fighter jets was submitted in 2022.
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!
