Greece announced on 12 September 2020 its intention to acquire 18 Rafales to equip its air force.
This announcement illustrates the strength of the partnership that has linked the Greek Air Force and Dassault Aviation for more than 45 years and demonstrates the enduring strategic relationship between Greece and France.
Greece ordered 40 Mirage F1 from Dassault Aviation in 1974, then 40 Mirage 2000 in 1985 and finally 15 Mirage 2000-5 in the year 2000; this latest contract also includes the modernisation of 10 Mirage 2000 to the 2000-5 standard with 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 mobilised 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,” said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.
Saint-Cloud, France, 12 September 2020
UPDATE: on 13 September, the Prime Minister of Greece clarified that his country would get 6 new Rafale jets and 12 second-hand ones.