The Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, delivered a speech this morning, stating that the Hellenic Armed Forces will receive an armaments package from the USA that includes:

• Frigates for the Hellenic Navy
• F-35s and C-130s for the Hellenic Air Force
• M2 Bradley for the Hellenic Army
• Armament for the Hellenic Coast Guard

The Prime Minister’s statement was as follows:

“Today is an important day for our national defence and for Greek diplomacy, because, according to a letter I received from the Secretary of State of the United States, Antony Blinken, the strategic depth of Greek-US relations is both highlighted and sealed.

Hence, Greece is officially about to acquire up to 40 latest generation F-35 fighter jets. At the same time, however, Greece acquires a very large armaments package for free, which decisively strengthens all three branches of the Hellenic Armed Forces as well as the Hellenic Coast Guard.

The package includes frigates, C-130 transport aircraft, armored battle tanks, and vehicles, but also much other defence equipment, which our country secured following the request I personally made to President Biden in May 2022.

Thus, our homeland is doubly shielded: on the one hand, its deterrent power is enhanced on land, sea, and air. On the other hand, since this package will be available free of charge from the US reserves there will be no extra charges for Greek taxpayers.

The acquisition is the result of a methodical, quiet, and long effort, which combined Greece’s alliance consistency on the international fronts with the promotion of its national interests. A result which consolidates, at the same time, the dynamic and independent Greek-US strategic relationship.

Because today’s development justifies the active diplomacy of credibility we have always followed in recent years: from the war in Ukraine, the enlargement of NATO, and the energy security of Europe, to the tension in the Eastern Mediterranean and the developments of the Middle East.

With clear positions and initiatives on major issues, Greece now plays an active role in the Western world. Something that the state’s partners and allies recognize, seeing in our country a constant supporter, a trusted interlocutor, but also a necessary companion and partner.

In an era of uncertainty, therefore, our homeland confirms that it stands with seriousness and geopolitical maturity on the world map, serving at the same time its national rights and shielding its defence. On the path of stability and peace, always with pride and national self-confidence.”

Also read: EXCLUSIVE | Lockheed Martin in an all-out discussion on armaments programs of the Hellenic Armed Forces