Greece officially announced its intention to acquire 18 Dassault Rafales to equip its air force
On 12 September 2020, amidst tensions between Athens and Ankara, since the launch in August of a Turkish gas exploration campaign in a disputed area of the eastern Mediterranean, Greece announced the intended procurement of eighteen Dasault Rafale fighter aircraft. Scramble Magazine reported on the possible acquisition of the Rafales on 5 September *).
Yesterday's announcement by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis illustrates the strength of the partnership that has linked the Polemikí Aeroporía (Hellenic Air Force) and Dassault Aviation for more than 45 years, and demonstrates the enduring strategic relationship between Greece and France. Speaking in Thessaloniki, the Greek PM Mitsotakis said that the defence of the country will also be boosted through the acquisition of Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, torpedoes, anti-tank and guided missiles and the modernisation of the Hydra-class frigates.
In the past Greece ordered 40 Mirage F1CG from Dassault Aviation in 1974, then 40 Mirage 2000BG/EG in 1985 and finally 15 Mirage 2000-5 in 2000. The latter contract also included the modernisation of 10 Mirage 2000 to the 2000-5 standard with a large contribution from the Greek industry.
Flying for the Hellenic Air Force, the Rafale is intended to perform air supremacy, interdiction, aerial reconnaissance, ground support, in-depth strike, anti-ship strike and nuclear deterrence missions.
*) News report 5 September 2020: Possible Hellenic Air Force Dassault Rafale acquisition
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