The Greek government decided to procure 30 fighter aircraft of the U.S. type F-16, which is already in the Hellenic Air Force’s (HAF)
inventory. Such a procurement calls for
filling the gap in the HAF jet fighter fleet due to attrition and to
satisfy an interim need of
third-generation aircraft.
At the same meeting, the Greek government decided to bring the
even more important acquisition of 30 (plus ten combat) aircraft of the
latest-generation type on the agenda of one of the next National Security Council (KYSEA) meetings, which are expected to take place later
this year.
EADS is convinced that on one of the forthcoming KYSEA meeting the
most modern combat aircraft Eurofighter will be the number one for the HAF,
as this aircraft is seen as the perfect weapon system to increase the defence capabilities for Greece. Johann Heitzmann, President and CEO of EADS
Military Aircraft, stated that -
in contradiction to misleading news agency reports - the decision of the Greek government does not pre-empt
anything in terms of an Eurofighter procurement in this country. “In contrary, we and our partners within the programme feel ourselves to be in a
very good position, as the European product Eurofighter not only offers unique operational capabilities for the Hellenic Air Force, but also is the
key for numerous political and industrial advantages for Greece.” Heitzmann said that the Eurofighter procurement will also strengthen the close
link between Athens and its European partners.
For all those harping on the other thread...this comes as a shock, eh??
Infact the F-16 as in the article was only to fill in some low gen aircrafts. But the 30 Eurofighter deal is still on as it will constitute the
purchase of the latest generation aircrafts.
hmmm...strong words...and they consider the F-16 as third generation
..
Your views ? Hockeyguy..what your take ?
[edit on 21-7-2005 by Stealth Spy]
