The United States Department of Defense has officially confirmed a major deal with Lockheed Martin, one of the world’s leading defense companies. The $17.2 million arrangement is intended to help Greece with its F-35 fighter jet acquisition efforts. These fighter jets are part of Greece’s larger plan to modernize its air force and enhance national defense.
Contract Announcement and Key Details
This agreement was signed as part of a bigger military sale program known as the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) mechanism. Through this program, the United States helps its allies buy American-made military equipment. In this case, the equipment is the F-35 Lightning II aircraft—a stealth fighter jet known for its advanced features and high performance in the sky.
The contract between Lockheed Martin and the U.S. government is not about building the jets themselves. Instead, it focuses on providing essential support services to Greece. These include technical support, engineering help, training, and program management. It also includes services for unique needs that are specific to Greece’s requirements. All of these efforts are aimed at helping Greece integrate the new fighter jets into its air force smoothly.
The program is set to run until May 2028. By that time, Greece is expected to be ready to begin receiving the aircraft and putting them into training and future use. The initial payment will be made in full up front. Further payments will only start once Greece receives the first four F-35 jets, which is scheduled for 2028.
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Greece’s F-35 Deal and Delivery Timeline
A previous agreement reached in July 2024 is followed by this new $17.2 million support contract.At that time, Greece was completing a deal to purchase 20 F-35A Lightning II aircraft. The value of that deal was €3.47 billion. These aircraft are the “A” variant of the F-35, which is designed to take off and land on regular runways, making it ideal for Greece’s military infrastructure.
These aircraft will start to be delivered in 2028. However, they will not be sent directly to Greece right away. Instead, the first batch of four jets will stay on U.S. territory until the year 2030. During this time, Greek pilots and ground crew will undergo intensive training to learn how to operate and maintain the new aircraft.
In accordance with the plan, all 20 F-35 jets will be delivered by 2033. This staged approach allows enough time for training, setup, and gradual integration into Greece’s existing defense systems.
Additionally, the contract contains a condition that permits Greece to purchase 20 more F-35s in the future. While this option is not a guarantee, it provides room for future expansion if Greece decides to increase its fleet.
Purpose and Role of Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin will play a central role in helping Greece make the most of its new aircraft. The services included in the contract are essential for a smooth start. The company will offer program management support, which means helping Greece organize and run the project efficiently. Engineers from Lockheed Martin will work with Greek officials to solve any technical issues that may arise.
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Training is another big part of the deal. Greek personnel will be trained in both flying and maintaining the F-35 jets. This includes teaching pilots how to handle the high-tech systems onboard and helping mechanics learn how to repair and service the aircraft. The training is important because the F-35 is one of the most complex fighter jets in the world.
Lockheed Martin will also help Greece fulfill what are called “one-time unique requirements.” These are special tasks or needs that are specific to Greece and may not apply to other countries buying the F-35. It could include adjustments to match Greece’s current military setup or meeting local rules and standards.
This contract marks the beginning of a long-term cooperation between Lockheed Martin, the United States, and Greece. All parts of the program—from training and support to future deliveries—are being handled under strict timelines and agreements.
The signing of this contract marks the official start of Greece’s F-35 program preparations. It is a key milestone in the modernization of Greece’s air defense systems and a significant step in U.S.-Greece military cooperation.