Greek Prime Minister’s Initial Approval of F-35 Aircraft
Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis Announces Sale of F-35 Fighter Jets from US
Greek Prime Minister Kiryakos Mitsotakis has announced that the United States has given the green light for the sale of F-35A Lightning II fighter jets to Greece. In a statement, Mitsotakis highlighted the strategic depth of US-Greece relations, stating that Greece is on the path to purchasing 40 F-35s, as well as acquiring an armament package that will strengthen the country’s Armed Forces and Coast Guard, completely free of charge.
In a letter from US Secretary of State Blinken to Mitsotakis, it was pointed out that the official approval process, including Congressional approval, is necessary for the sale. Blinken also mentioned the sale of approximately 40 new F-35s to Greece, as well as 3 Protector-class coast guard boats and various military trucks and vehicles within the scope of the Redundant Defense Material (EDA) Program.
Additionally, Blinken noted that Greece will be notified so that 4 surplus LCS class warships from the US Navy can be given to the country. In terms of US foreign military financing, Greece can benefit from up to 200 million dollars. The US will give Greece priority in acquiring MRAP type military all-terrain vehicles and will also evaluate the country’s need for KC-135 and C-130 aircraft.
The estimated price of 40 F-35 fighter jets is $8.6 billion. This news comes at a time when Greece is looking to bolster its defense capabilities.
The sale of the F-35 fighter jets and other military equipment from the US to Greece is expected to further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries. Greece’s acquisition of these advanced military assets is an indication of the importance of the US-Greece alliance and the commitment to regional security and stability.
The announcement of the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Greece comes in the wake of a similar notification to Turkey regarding the sale of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets. The US is continuing to engage with its allies in the region to support their defense and security needs.
As the details of the sale and acquisition process unfold, Greece’s defense capabilities are poised to receive a significant boost with the addition of the F-35 fighter jets and other advanced military equipment from the US. This development underscores the continued cooperation and collaboration between the US and Greece in the defense and security realm.
