Greece is set to join the F-35 Lightning II co-production program, marking a significant step forward in its defense capabilities, its role in NATO, and broader U.S.-Greece and European security cooperation.
Speaking to Kathimerini, Mara Motherway, Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at Lockheed Martin, confirmed that Greece’s integration into the program will begin in the coming weeks.
This follows the U.S. Department of Defense’s approval of a $17.2 million contract with Lockheed Martin to provide the necessary engineering and technical support for Greece’s integration into the co-production program.
“Production of Greek jets begin in Lot 20 for which long lead procurement has begun, and full production is slated for 2027. Once produced, we are looking at the first delivery in late 2028 with the first aircraft arrival in Greece currently scheduled for 2030. All of Greece’s jets will be in the latest available configuration,” Motherway told Kathimerini.
According to the Greek newspaper, there are also ongoing discussions between U.S. and Greek officials to bridge the significant financial gap required to enable the upgrade of 36 Greek Block 50 F-16s to the more advanced Viper configuration.
Greece is the only European nation to have opted for the F-16 Viper upgrade, which includes more advanced avionics and weapons systems.
“With 36 F-16s now upgraded to the advanced Viper configuration, the Hellenic Air Force is gaining a decisive edge in mission readiness and allied operations,” Motherway said.
“We value our work with Greek industry and focus on long-term partnerships that create jobs and support research and education,” Motherway also told Kathimerini. “By the completion of the current F-16 Viper upgrade, economic benefits will exceed $1 billion. As part of that effort, we’ve supported Hellenic Aerospace Industries by funding projects that strengthen infrastructure and technical capabilities, including facility upgrades, expanded aerostructures manufacturing and MRO capacity for the Viper program.”