Budding, albeit unofficial, interest in F-35 purchase by Greece

Reports of Athens’ interest in acquiring US-made F-35s warplanes – although not officially stated – swirled in the Greek capital this week, with defense sources merely saying Greece’s armed forces leadership is awaiting a relevant compatibility study by the US Pentagon.

According to the sources, the study will examine the manner and scope in which the fifth generation fighter plane could be utilized by Greece’s military.

The reports come amid a briefing this week by the Greek general staff on the modernization programs for the fleet of Mirage 2000s and 2000-5s in the Hellenic Air Force. A portion of Greece’s F-16s are up for modernization.