Greek defense ministry weighs in on SSI infrastructure programs for F-35s

Greece is considering partnering with Lockheed Martin to provide security, supply, and information (SSI) infrastructure programs for the F-35 fighter jet package. A decision by the Greek Defense Ministry is expected next week on this proposal which would ensure the successful reception of the F-35s in 2027-28

Two F-35A Lightning IIs fly in formation after receiving fuel from a KC-135R Stratotanker from the 28th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, May 15, 2019 at an undisclosed location. The 28th EARS maintains a 24/7 presence in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, supporting U.S. and Coalition aircraft in various operations in countries such as Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Keifer Bowes)

The SSI infrastructure is crucial in transferring expertise, including cybersecurity and network security. Turkey was excluded from the F-35 program due to its use of a third-party system (S-400) compromising these features. Sources report that Greek and US delegations discussed the proposal in a meeting last week, with the Hellenic National Defense General Staff and Hellenic Air Force General Staff pressuring for a price tag under $500 million. The domestic defense industry is also looking for a guarantee of an additional $500 million for projects.

Greece had sent a Letter of Request for 20 F-35A fighters to Washington DC via the U.S. embassy in Athens in June 2022.

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