An ambitious armament programme has been implemented by Athens in recent years, provoking a strong reaction from Ankara, as it seems to be turning over not the numbers on the relevant tables, but the balance of power on the ground.
With Greece gaining "superiority" in air and sea in the next period and with a time horizon until 2030,
The Air Force is moving to 4th, 5th and 5th generation aircraft, with Turkey lagging behind as it will have no fighter of this level.
The Air Force is moving to 4th, 5th and 5th generation aircraft, with Turkey lagging behind as it will have no fighter of this level. This reversal largely explains Ankara's frustration as it is still waiting for a "green light" from Washington for an additional purchase and upgrade of its own F-16s.
The first eight Rafale are already in Tanagra, with 18 expected by the summer of 2023 and 24 by next year.
Athens has already sent a request of interest to the US for the F-35 and is awaiting developments, while the F-16s are also on an upgrade programme, to Viper.
At the same time, the Navy has proceeded with the order for three FDI (Belh@rra) frigates, with delivery likely to begin in 2024 and be completed in 2025, while the option to acquire a fourth ship of the same type remains active.
The programme for the acquisition of three corvettes has already been activated with the option for an additional one.
The French and Italians - according to reports - submitted their final proposals during the week with increased mobility in the Ministry of National Defence and decisions, as underlined by competent sources, expected immediately and to be judged on "details".
The timing of delivery and funding play a dominant role, while the final choice will be political and will have a diplomatic dimension. The Spike NLOS missile systems from Israel are also heading towards signature, which are for the army, army air force and navy.
Source: TA NEA print edition
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