GreeceIs USAIt is scheduled to be retired by 2026. AH-64D Apache We are pursuing a plan to take delivery of some of the attack helicopters. A total of 100 units are scheduled to be retired from active service, and Athens plans to introduce up to 30 of them in two batches of 15 units each.
Greek daily newspaper KathimeriniAccording to , the formal request has not yet been delivered to the U.S. Defense Cooperation Office in Athens, but preliminary contacts have already been made between the two countries, and the U.S. has reportedly confirmed the possibility of providing helicopters.
The first diplomatic process will take place at the international AUSA exhibition in the United States, where Greece will officially express its interest. The Greek delegation was headed by the Chief of Staff of the Hellenic Army. Georgios Kostidiswill be led by
Transfer through the EDA program
If negotiations progress, the transfer will be made through the U.S. Excess Defense Assets (EDA) program. This program allows U.S. allies to receive surplus military equipment free of charge; they only have to cover transportation and maintenance costs.
This interest from Athens reflects the serious situation of the country’s Apache helicopter fleet. 28 units currently in operation (19 units) AH-64A and 9 AH-64D), only one aircraft maintains full operational capability, military sources said. The situation was further worsened by a fire that broke out at Stefanovicio Air Base, a major maintenance base, leading to the loss of spare parts inventory.
Other American equipment is also being considered for introduction.
In addition to helicopters, Greece is also considering acquiring armored vehicles and other defense systems from America’s surplus military assets. Negotiations are the new US ambassador Kimberly GuilfoyleThis is expected to accelerate further after taking office in Athens at the end of October.
The acquisition of modernized Apache helicopters is expected to significantly strengthen the Hellenic Army’s attack and reconnaissance capabilities. It is also part of Greece’s military modernization plan, which includes new fighter jets, frigates and air defense systems.
source: Kathimerini | US Army. This content was created with the help of artificial intelligence and has been reviewed by our editorial team.
