Delivery of 30th F-16 Viper Fighter Jet to Greece

Lockheed Martin announced that it has delivered the 30th modernized F-16 Viper fighter jet to the Hellenic Air Force. In a statement made on its official X account, the company emphasized that significant progress has been made in Greece's modernization program, which covers a total of 84 fighter jets.

This program aims to increase the operational capacity of the Hellenic Air Force and bring it into line with modern warfare requirements. Previous deliveries were delayed due to lack of progress through 2024. However, with the latest delivery, the program is expected to be brought back to its planned schedule.

Lockheed Martin's Role and Statements

Mike Shoemaker, Lockheed Martin Integrated Fighter Vice President and General Manager, emphasized the importance of the F-16V modernization program, saying, “This program increases Greece’s capacity to defend its national interests while also contributing to the country’s economic development. At Lockheed Martin, we continue our commitment to providing industry-leading air superiority solutions.”

Technical Dimension of the Modernization Program

The F-16 Viper modernization includes a number of technological innovations that will help the aircraft achieve superiority on the battlefield, including:

  • Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (AGCAS): A system that reduces the possibility of pilots making mistakes and increases safety.
  • Pilot Activated Recovery System: A technology aimed at protecting the pilot's life in emergency situations.
  • APG-83 AESA Radar: Modern radar system providing wider coverage and high precision target tracking.

In the modernization process, the time required to replace each aircraft is gradually decreasing. In order to accelerate this process, Hellenic Aerospace Industries (EAV) aims to deliver 18 aircraft per year by hiring additional expert personnel. The program is planned to be completed by 2027.

Ramstein Flag 24 Exercise: The First Big Test

The modernized F-16 Viper fighter jets were tested for the first time at the NATO-organized Ramstein Flag 24 exercise. This exercise was the first to be held outside Germany and was the first major NATO exercise hosted by Greece. During the exercise, the modernized aircraft successfully demonstrated their operational capabilities.

Greece’s F-16 modernization program not only increases military capacity, but also contributes to the country’s defense industry and economic development. Led by Lockheed Martin and driven by EAV’s local efforts, the program strengthens Greece’s position within NATO.

With the completion of 84 fighter jets, Greece will significantly increase its air defense power in the region and continue to be an effective actor in the modern battlefield. The fact that the modernized aircraft have proven themselves in NATO exercises is considered a concrete indicator of the success of this program.

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