The upgrade program for Greece’s F-16 fighter jets is facing delays due to a shortage of qualified personnel. Well-informed sources indicate the program is at a crossroads, with the potential for either significant progress or further setbacks.
Photo: HAI
The primary cause for the delays is the loss of specialized technicians at Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI), the company responsible for the upgrades. These resignations, a near-daily occurrence since 2018 according to sources, have created significant staffing gaps that have hampered progress.
To address the immediate issue and expedite deliveries, Lockheed Martin, the aircraft’s manufacturer, has collaborated with HAI to bolster their workforce. However, sources acknowledge this as a temporary solution. The long-term goal is to find a sustainable approach to bring the program back on track.
Despite the setbacks, the program has delivered 19 upgraded fighter jets, exceeding the initial September 2023 deadline through a series of extensions. The 20th aircraft is expected to arrive by the end of June, followed by two more in July and another two by October.
Under this revised schedule, assuming no further delays, the program is projected to fall four aircraft short of its target by year-end. While 16 jets will be undergoing upgrades at EAV’s facilities, sources believe the remaining four won’t be completed until sometime in 2025.
The Greek Ministry of Defense, the Air Force General Staff, EAV’s new management, and Lockheed Martin are reportedly engaged in ongoing consultations to find a permanent solution to the staffing issues and ensure the program’s successful completion.
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