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.

Aviation

Boeing, Antonov to Collaborate on Defense Projects

– MOU represents Boeing’s commitment to work with Ukrainian industry

– Includes exploring opportunities for collaborating on in-country support of Unmanned Aerial Systems

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed today by Boeing and Antonov Company to investigate potential collaboration on defense-related projects.

“We’re happy to keep collaborating with the Antonov Company to help Ukraine’s economic development and expansion,” stated Ted Colbert, CEO and president of Boeing Defence, Space, & Security.

Airbus and the Antonov An-225: The Best Partnership:Click here

“This agreement demonstrates our ongoing efforts to find more opportunities to work with Ukrainian industry, which was underscored by our signing of the Ukrainian Defence Industry Compact earlier this year.”

The areas of potential collaboration identified in the agreement consist of training, logistical support and overhaul services for tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems utilized by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which includes the ScanEagle. In addition, the companies will also explore opportunities for Antonov to provide engineering support to Boeing.

The six largest cargo aircraft ever built in the aviation industry:Click here

“A strong, innovative, and efficient defense industry is key to sustainable economic development and national security, and we are extremely excited to collaborate with Boeing,” said Ievhen Gavrylov, CEO of Antonov Company.

This agreement brings a whole new level of opportunity to implement the latest and most effective solutions – in addition to the possibility of future projects with Boeing in the aerospace and defense industry.”