The countdown to the long -awaited upgrade of F-16 Block 50 in her F-16 Viper Air Force It has begun. Athens has received the final proposal: 38 fighters will be modernized in a Viper formulation, at a cost of about € 1.1 billion, instead of $ 1.52 billion in the original estimate.
The reduction for the Air Force was achieved after a harsh negotiation, which was personally assumed by the Chief of General Staff, Vice -Commander Demosthenes Grigoriadis. Despite the initial “ceiling” of 1 billion euros, an agreement was reached by an additional reduction of 100m euros, thanks to the projected sale of radar and exception by the F-16 Block 52+.
The official visit of the Vice -Commander to the US was a pivotal moment as it accelerated developments and paved the way for the deal.
A strategic step for the Air Force
The F-16 Block 50s are the trunk of two degrees based in New Anchialos: 341 Squadron “Arrow” and 347 Squadron “Perseus”. Their modernization is a strategic choice, leading to the complete homogenization of the fleet, with 121 F-16 Viper as a total of 83 block 52+ program.
The integration of sensors, weapons systems and operational capabilities brings the PA into full alignment with NATO standards and enhances the capabilities of the arsenal for the coming decades.
Radar Aesa and smart weapons
At the “heart” of the program is the AN/APG-83 SABR radar, AESA technology, which offers simultaneous multiple targets involvement in air, soil and the sea, with increased protection against electronic countermeasures.
The aircraft will also be equipped with Modular Mission Computer, new datalinks, advanced targeting casks such as Sniper ATP, self-protection systems and the ability to transport sophisticated precision weapons, such as AIM-20D missiles and JDAM bombs.
Upgrade with Greek signature
The upgrading of the 38 Block 50 will be entirely from the DAC. With the experience of the Block 52+ and the necessary know -how, the ODA is now able to undertake the new project.
This option strengthens the Greek defense industry and ensures the country’s technical autonomy in fleet maintenance. The program is planned to create new jobs and supply the domestic economy through investment and compensatory actions.
With 121 F-16 Viper, 24 Rafale F3R and future F-35A, Greece forms a modern and network-centric air force. The F-35s will function as “invisible” information hubs, transmitting real-time data to Viper and Rafale, forming a single surveillance and strike network in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.
In addition to the operational support, the agreement is also a powerful message for Greece – USA strategic cooperation and the deepening of interoperability with NATO forces.
Source: Onalert.gr / Costas Sarikas