Greece will order 20 F-35 Lightning II fighters worth $3.7bn

Lockheed Martin may sign a contract with the Greek Armed Forces to supply fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighters. The Greeks first expressed a desire for the new aircraft three years ago.

Here's What We Know

Greek authorities have discussed Lightning II delivery dates with the F-35 Joint Chiefs. If the contract is signed, deliveries will start in 2028 and will last for six years. The reason is the heavy workload at Lockheed Martin's facilities.

• 2028 - 4 fighters;
• 2029 - 2 fighters;
• 2030 - 3 fighters;
• 2031 - 3 fighter jets;
• 2032 - 4 fighters;
• 2033 - 4 fighters.

It is not known yet at what price Greece will order fifth generation fighters, but the total amount of the deal will be $3.5-3.7 billion. However, it will include not only F-35 Lightning II aircrafts. The money will also be spent on training pilots, building infrastructure and buying spare parts. Additionally Greece wants to order four aircraft simulators worth about $220 million.

Source: Greek Times