The Hellenic Air Force has officially taken delivery of its 24th Rafale fighter jet, marking the completion of a significant acquisition program with France. The final single-seat aircraft, bearing the serial number 457, touched down at the 114th Combat Wing in Tanagra, after a non-stop flight from Mérignac, near Bordeaux. The aircraft was promptly handed over to the 332nd Squadron, which operates the advanced French-made fighters.
© Dassault Aviation – C. Cosmao
The acquisition of the Rafale jets is not just about adding numbers to the fleet; it’s a generational leap in technology and capability. The first contract, inked in January 2021, included 12 previously used and six newly manufactured Rafale F3R fighters. The deal, valued at approximately €2.5 billion, also covered weapons, initial support, comprehensive pilot and technician training, and necessary infrastructure upgrades at Tanagra. Of these initial 18 aircraft, 14 were single-seaters and four were two-seaters. The first of these Rafales was delivered to Greece in July 2021, with the first six remaining in France for pilot training, before arriving at Tanagra in January 2022.
To increase the strength of the 332nd Squadron, Athens placed a follow-on order in March 2022 for six additional, brand-new Rafales, at a cost of €1.09 billion. This supplementary order brought the total acquisition to 24 aircraft, concluding a rapid and strategic procurement process that has significantly enhanced the Hellenic Air Force.
The Rafale program also underscores the deep-rooted and enduring partnership between Greece and Dassault Aviation. The relationship stretches back more than 45 years, marked by a succession of acquisitions including 40 Mirage F1s in 1974, another 40 Mirage 2000s in 1985, and 15 Mirage 2000-5s in 2000. This latest Rafale contract solidifies this relationship as a cornerstone of Greek defence strategy.
For more information, hit the Source below