On May 10, 2024, the Hellenic Air Force General Staff announced its intention to acquire up to ten new Rafale F4 fighter jets from Dassault Aviation. This move is part of a broader strategy to modernize the Greek air force, which involves phasing out older models such as the F-4 Phantom and Mirage 2000-5 in favor of a more compact and technologically advanced fleet.
Greece has entered into advanced discussions to purchase up to an additional 10 Rafale F4 fighter jets from Dassault Aviation, as part of an initiative to modernize and streamline its air force. This effort comes in a context where Athens is looking to retire older models like the F-4 Phantom and the Mirage 2000-5, prioritizing a smaller but more technologically advanced fleet.
The renewed interest of Greece in the Rafales is underpinned by the defense agreement signed with France in September 2021, which includes a mutual assistance clause and aims to enhance interoperability and cooperation between the two nations. However, as the renewal in 2026 approaches, the agreement’s effectiveness is questioned by experts.
This move comes as Greece also considers selling its Mirage 2000-5s, potentially to India, to partially finance the purchase of the additional Rafales. Should these transactions materialize, they would mark a significant shift in Greek air defense strategy, centered around the Rafales and upgraded F-16s to the Block 70 “Viper” standard.