The Greece intends to ask the United States the transfer of part of the attack helicopters AH-64D Apache which will be decommissioned by the US Army by 2026. In total, around 100 units will be retired from active service and Athens aims to receive up to 30 of them, divided into two batches of 15 aircraft each.
According to the Greek newspaper Kathimerinialthough the official request has not yet been sent to the US Defense Cooperation Office in Athens, there have already been preliminary contacts between the two countries — and the American side has confirmed the availability of the helicopters.
The first diplomatic step will be taken during the AUSA International Exhibition in the United States, where Greece will formalize its interest. The Greek delegation will be led by the Chief of Staff of the Hellenic Army, Georgios Kostidis.
Transfer via the EDA program
If the deal goes forward, the transfer will occur through the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program, which allows U.S. allies to receive surplus military equipment free of charge — bearing only the costs of transportation and refurbishment.
Athens’ interest reflects the critical situation of its current Apache fleet. Of the 28 helicopters in service (19 AH-64A e 9 AH-64D), according to military sources only one is fully operational. The lack of spare parts was exacerbated by a fire at the Stefanovicio air base, one of the Greek army’s main maintenance centers.
Other American equipment in the crosshairs
In addition to helicopters, Greece is also considering requesting surplus armored vehicles and other systems from the US arsenal. Negotiations are expected to intensify after the arrival of the new American ambassador to Athens, Kimberly Guilfoylescheduled for the end of October.
The acquisition of modernized Apache helicopters would represent a major upgrade of the Hellenic Army’s attack and reconnaissance capabilities, at a time of increasing modernization of the Greek armed forces, which also includes new programs for fighters, frigates and air defense systems.
Source: Kathimerini | US Army. This content was created with the help of artificial intelligence and reviewed by the editorial team.
