The Hellenic Air Force has received its 42nd upgraded F-16 Viper, in a program representing collaboration between Lockheed Martin and Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI). As emphasized in a joint announcement by both companies, this delivery completes 50% of the fleet upgrade program, marking a crucial milestone for the project’s progress.
It should be noted that deliveries have accelerated over the past two years, thanks to close cooperation between HAI, the Hellenic Air Force, the U.S. government, and Lockheed Martin. “The delivery of the 42nd F-16 Viper confirms Greece’s leadership position in allied operations and our commitment to supporting the Hellenic Air Force with combat-ready capabilities,” stated Mike Shoemaker, vice president of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin.
“The F-16 Viper enhances NATO interoperability, improves operational effectiveness, and strengthens Greece’s role in regional security,” he added.
“With the delivery of the 42nd F-16 Viper, the program reaches the halfway point”
“With the delivery of the 42nd F-16 Viper, the program reaches the halfway point,” stated Alexandros Diakopoulos, chairman and CEO of HAI. “The domestic added value remains in Greece and is converted into security for the Aegean, in cooperation with the Air Force, the U.S. government, and Lockheed Martin. We continue with the same momentum,” he added.
The Viper program equips Greek F-16s with APG-83 AESA radar, advanced mission systems, upgraded security capabilities, and modernized cockpits. The work is carried out in Greece with support from specialized Lockheed Martin teams.
The Greek F-16 modernization program, according to the contract, covers a total of 84 aircraft, though it should be noted that two of these are no longer available. Lockheed Martin has already provided benefits exceeding $1 billion to the Greek economy through multi-year industrial partnerships, as highlighted in the announcement.
With information from ANA-MPA
