Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis describes today as very important for Greek defense and diplomacy, following the announcement by the US Department of State giving the green light for the sale of up to 40 F-35 fighter jets to Greece.

In his statement, the prime minister stands by the fact that the agreement provides for the provision of a large free package of equipment to Greece, “which decisively strengthens all three branches of the Armed Forces, as well as the Greek Coast Guard”.

“These are frigates, C-130 transports, armored tanks and vehicles, but also many other elements of defense material, which our country secured following the request I made, in May 2022, personally to President Biden .

Thus, the motherland is doubly shielded: on the one hand, its deterrent power is magnified on land, in the air and at sea. While, on the other hand, there is no burden on the Greek taxpayer, as this package will be made available free of charge, from the American reserves”, says the Prime Minister and emphasizes:

“Based on a letter I received from United States Secretary of State Antony Blinkenthe strategic depth of Greek-American relations is highlighted and sealed”.

“In an era of uncertainty, therefore, our country confirms that it stands with seriousness and geopolitical maturity on the world map. While, at the same time, it serves its national rights, shielding its defense. On the path of stability and peace, always with pride and national self-confidence” concludes the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister’s statement:

“Today is an important day for our national defense and for Greek diplomacy. Because, based on a letter I received from the Secretary of State of the United States Antony Blinken, the strategic depth of Greek-American relations is highlighted and sealed.

With it, Greece is officially on track to acquire up to 40 latest generation F-35 fighter jets. At the same time, however, acquires for free a very large package of equipment that decisively strengthens all three branches of the Armed Forces, but also the Hellenic Coast Guard.

These are frigates, C-130 transports, armored tanks and vehicles, but also many other items of defense material, which our country secured following the request I made, in May 2022, personally to President Biden.

Thus, the motherland is doubly shielded: on the one hand, its deterrent power is magnified on land, in the air and at sea. While, on the other hand, the Greek taxpayer is not burdened, as this package will be available free of charge, from the American reserves.

It 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-American strategic relationship.

Because today’s development justifies the active diplomacy of credibility that we have followed everywhere 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 drama of the Middle East.

With clear positions and initiatives on major issues, Greece now plays an active role in the Western world. Something that her 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 country confirms that it stands with seriousness and geopolitical maturity on the world map. While, at the same time, it serves its national rights, shielding its defense. On the path of stability and peace, always with pride and national self-confidence.”

See the letter from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis