SAINT-CLOUD, FRANCE – Greece announced on September 12, 2020 its intention to acquire 18 Dassault Rafales to equip its air force – the Hellenic Air Force (HAF), Dassault Aviation said in a press release on Saturday.

Greek’s announcement illustrates the bond and partnership between the Hellenic Air Force and Dassault Aviation for more than 45 years, demonstrating the enduring strategic relationship between France and Greece.

The Rafale will be the air force’s third Dassault fighter jet, since Greece ordered 40 Mirage F1s in 1974, 40 Mirage 2000s in 1985 and 15 Mirage 2000-5s in 2000 – the latest contract also includes the modernization of 10 Mirage 2000s to the 2000-5 standard and a large contribution from Greek industry.

“I am delighted with this announcement, which reinforces the exceptional relationship we have had with Greece for nearly half a century, and I thank the Greek authorities for their confidence in us once again. Dassault Aviation is fully mobilized to meet the operational needs expressed by the Greek Air Force, and thus contribute to ensuring Greece’s sovereignty and the safety of the Greek people,” Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation said.

Hellenic Air Force

The Hellenic Air Force (HAF) – in Greek: Polemikí Aeroporía, literally “War Aviation” – is the air force of Greece. Hellenic is the synonym for Greek in Greek language. During the era of the Kingdom of Greece – from 1935 to 1973 – the air force was known as the Royal Hellenic Air Force (RHAF), in Greek: Ellinikí Vasilikí Aeroporía.

The HAF is one of the three branches of the Hellenic Armed Forces, with its mission to guard and protect Greek airspace and providing air assistance and air support to the Hellenic Army and Hellenic Navy, and to provide humanitarian aid in Greece and around the world.

Dassault Aviation

The French aircraft manufacturer has delivered over 10,000 military and civil aircraft in more than 90 countries since the company was founded in 1929. Dassault Aviation has built up expertise, which is recognized worldwide in designing, developing, selling and supporting all types of aircraft, from the Rafale fighter to the high-end business jets of the Falcon Family, but also military drones and space systems. The company reported revenues of €7,3 billion in 2019. Dassault Aviation has 12,750 employees.

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(Head image: © Dassault Aviation)