A Greece plans to ask USA the transfer of part of the attack helicopters AH-64D Apache which will be deactivated by the US Army by 2026. In total, around 100 units will leave active service, and Athens intends to receive up to 30 of them, in two batches of 15 aircraft each.
According to the Greek newspaper Kathimerinialthough the official request has not yet been forwarded to the US Office of Defense Cooperation in Athens, preliminary contacts have already taken place between the two countries — and the American side has reportedly confirmed the availability of the helicopters.
The first diplomatic step will be taken during the AUSA International Exhibition, in the United States, where Greece is expected to formalize its interest. The Greek delegation will be led by the Chief of Staff of the Hellenic Army, Georgios Kostidis.
Transfer via EDA program
If the agreement moves forward, the transfer will be carried out through the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program, which allows US allies to receive surplus military equipment free of charge — bearing only the costs of transportation and reconditioning.
Athens’ interest reflects the critical situation of its current Apache fleet. Of the 28 aircraft in service (19 AH-64A e 9 A-64d), only one is fully operational, according to military sources. The unavailability was worsened by the loss of spare parts stocks in a fire at Stefanovikio air base, one of the Greek Army’s main maintenance centers.
Other American equipment on the radar
In addition to helicopters, Greece is also considering requesting armored vehicles and other surplus systems from the United States arsenal. Negotiations are expected to gain momentum following the arrival of the new US ambassador in Athens, Kimberly Guilfoyle, scheduled for the end of October.
The acquisition of modernized Apaches would be an important reinforcement for the Hellenic Army’s attack and reconnaissance capabilities, at a time of increasing modernization of the Greek armed forces, which also include programs for new fighters, frigates and air defense systems.
Source: Kathimerini | US Army. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
