With the acquisition of the F-35, the Greek Air Force acquires the first 5th generation aircraft, and moves into a new era, as it becomes the most powerful deterrent presence in our region, Nikos Dendias emphasized on Thursday.

The defense minister’s statement comes after Athens sent to the US the signed Letter of Acceptance for the supply of 20 F-35 A Lighting II and related equipment.

Based on the letter, Athens reserves the right to order 20 additional 5th generation fighters.

He characterized the development as a very important step in the “Agenda 2030” while adding that “combined with everything else that is happening”, the Armed Forces of our country “will realize what we all believe: The strongest deterrence presence in our region, in the history of the Greek nation”.

Receipt of the first 5th generation fighters is estimated that will happen in 2028.

“Today is a good day for the Greek Air Force, a good day for the Greek Armed Forces, for the Ministry of National Defense” pointed out Mr. Dendias.

“The Letter of Acceptance was signed and sent to the American side – the Letter of Acceptance – for the F-35, for the acquisition of the most modern aircraft on the planet today,” he said.

“The decision of the KYSEA, the notification of the Hellenic Parliament, the competent Committee has preceded. After that we proceeded to send this letter which marks the beginning of contract negotiations, which I hope will be completed soon” concluded Mr. Dendias.