Defence

Greece Offers Older F-16s and Mirage 2000s for Sale

Greece Is Putting Its Older F-16s And Mirage 2000s Up For Sale

Photo:Wikipedia

Greece’s military is undergoing a significant transformation as it looks to modernize its air force and streamline its fleet of fighter jets.

Defense Minister Nikos Dendias has announced plans to upgrade the country’s American-made F-16 fighter jets while also expressing interest in acquiring more advanced F-35s. As part of this overhaul, Greece intends to sell off some of its older F-16s and French Mirage 2000 fighter jets.

Dendias highlighted the necessity of modernizing the military, citing the financial burden of operating multiple types of aircraft in various configurations. The current fleet includes F-4s, Mirage 2000-5s, Block 30 F-16s, Block 50 F-16s, Block 52 F-16s, Viper F-16s, and Rafales. The Defense Minister emphasized the need for a more homogenous fleet to improve interoperability and reduce maintenance demands.

The sale of older F-16s and Mirage 2000s will make room for the introduction of new fighter equipment, including upgraded F-16 Vipers and incoming Rafales. Additionally, plans are in place to acquire F-35A stealth fighters in the future.

Furthermore, Greece’s defense developments have attracted interest from abroad, notably from the United States. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed keenness in exploring potential defense cooperation with Greece, including opportunities for asset transfers or sales to Ukraine. However, despite Ukraine’s expressed interest, Greek combat aircraft have not been included in discussions for potential transfers.

As Greece looks ahead to a leaner, more technologically advanced air force, the sale of older F-16s and Mirage 2000s underscores its commitment to modernization and strategic alignment with evolving defense needs.

Defence

Russia’s NV.17 Hybrid Helicopter Aims to Balance Light and Heavy Helicopter Needs

As Western sanctions continue to impact Russia’s aviation sector, the country is making significant strides in advancing its domestic aerospace capabilities.

Despite the ongoing challenges, Russia has unveiled the Heliburo HB.17, a cutting-edge hybrid-powered medium-class helicopter that promises to reshape both commercial and military aviation.

The helicopter is currently in the technical design phase, with plans for its first flight slated for 2027. This marks a major step forward in Russia’s efforts to modernize its aviation fleet and reduce reliance on foreign technology.

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The HB.17 is designed as a versatile, multi-role aircraft, capable of performing a wide range of functions. It is built to handle cargo transport, passenger carriage, reconnaissance, and close air support missions. With its robust design and flexible capabilities, the HB.17 is expected to meet the needs of both military and commercial operators, offering a solution for missions requiring a greater capacity than light helicopters but avoiding the limitations of larger aircraft.

One of the most innovative features of the HB.17 is its hybrid power plant. This combination of conventional and electric technologies enhances fuel efficiency, allowing the helicopter to stay airborne for up to seven hours without needing to refuel.

This extended operational endurance makes the HB.17 particularly well-suited for long-duration missions, providing a significant advantage over traditional helicopters. Additionally, the HB.17 will be equipped with modern avionics, ensuring advanced navigation, communication, and operational capabilities.

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The HB.17 is positioned to compete with other medium-class helicopters such as the Kamov Ka-60/62 and the Mil Mi-38. However, its hybrid powerplant and modern avionics set it apart, offering a more efficient and technologically advanced alternative.

Its multi-role versatility, combined with its fuel efficiency and cutting-edge systems, gives it a competitive edge in the evolving aviation landscape. The introduction of the HB.17 follows recent reports of Russia receiving a new batch of armored vehicles from the UAE-based Streit Group.

Russia has traditionally focused on producing helicopters for defense purposes, but this time, it appears to be venturing into the civilian helicopter market with the HB.17.

This, along with the ongoing development of the HB.17, reflects Russia’s continued efforts to modernize its military assets and increase its self-reliance, even as sanctions continue to pressure its defense and aerospace sectors.

As Russia faces mounting geopolitical challenges, the HB.17 stands as a symbol of resilience, technological innovation, and determination to maintain its military and aviation capabilities.