Greece has renewed its push for the United States to approve the export of AIM-120D Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) to equip its incoming fleet of F-35A stealth fighters, aiming to maintain parity with Türkiye’s growing arsenal of long-range Meteor missiles on its Eurofighter Typhoons. The request, formally resubmitted by Greece’s Ministry of National Defense and reported by Kathimerini on November 10, 2025, underscores Athens’ determination to preserve air superiority in the Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean amid rising regional tensions.
The AIM-120D represents the pinnacle of the AMRAAM family, built by Raytheon with enhanced two-way datalink, GPS-aided inertial navigation, and advanced electronic protection measures that allow it to operate effectively even in heavily jammed environments. With a length of 3.66 meters, diameter of 178 mm, and launch weight around 160 kg, the missile reaches speeds near Mach 4 and offers a maximum range estimated between 160 and 180 kilometers depending on launch conditions. Its active radar seeker enables true fire-and-forget capability, giving pilots the freedom to maneuver or engage additional targets immediately after launch. For Greece, integrating this missile with the F-35’s advanced sensor suite and stealth profile is seen as critical to countering agile, long-range threats.
Türkiye’s decision to arm its Eurofighter fleet with the MBDA Meteor has been a key driver behind Greece’s urgency. Powered by a ramjet engine, the Meteor sustains high velocity throughout its flight, delivering a significantly larger no-escape zone—potentially exceeding 150 km in optimal scenarios. This development has shifted the balance of beyond-visual-range (BVR) combat in Ankara’s favor, prompting Athens to seek equivalent or superior capabilities.
U.S. officials have yet to respond definitively, with the proposal under review within broader regional arms transfer frameworks. Greek defense sources have made it clear: should Washington deny the AIM-120D sale, Athens is prepared to procure the European Meteor through MBDA, a move that would diversify its supply chain and reduce dependence on American systems. Such a pivot could reshape defense industrial ties within NATO’s southern flank.
Beyond the immediate need, Greece is already looking toward next-generation weaponry. The AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM), under development by Lockheed Martin, promises ranges beyond 200 km and speeds approaching Mach 5. Designed to counter emerging Chinese and Russian air-to-air threats, the JATM is a top priority for both the U.S. Air Force and Navy. Despite delays in testing and integration, the program received approximately $687 million in the 2026 U.S. defense budget. Greek planners want their F-35s positioned to adopt the AIM-260 as soon as it becomes export-eligible, ensuring long-term alignment with NATO’s most advanced air combat systems.
The F-35A forms the cornerstone of Greece’s air force modernization. A €3.47 billion contract signed in July 2024 secures 20 aircraft, spare engines, simulators, training programs, and four years of operational support. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2028, with initial jets remaining in the U.S. for pilot familiarization before deployment to Andravida Air Base in the early 2030s. Infrastructure upgrades—including secure facilities, mission planning systems, and classified data links—are progressing on schedule. The U.S. State Department has pre-approved a potential follow-on sale of up to 40 additional F-35s valued at $8.6 billion, while a separate $17.2 million technical support agreement runs through 2028. Recent reports suggest Greece may acquire 8 to 12 more jets to compensate for delays in upgrading 38 F-16 Block 50 fighters to Viper configuration.
Today, the Hellenic Air Force operates a balanced, multi-role fleet: 24 Rafale F3R jets delivered between 2022 and early 2025, equipped with Meteor, MICA, SCALP, and Exocet missiles; 83 F-16V Vipers serving as the primary workhorse through the 2030s; and ongoing upgrades to 38 F-16 Block 50s at domestic facilities. Additional Rafale purchases have been ruled out, with officials confident the current mix delivers robust deterrence and full interoperability with allies.
Greece is also exploring cutting-edge supporting technologies. Talks are underway with the U.S. regarding participation in the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which pairs manned fighters with autonomous drones for reconnaissance, electronic attack, and strike missions. Congress has authorized between $500 million and $3.1 billion over four years to accelerate development, creating opportunities for international partners. On the defensive side, the APKWS II laser-guided rocket is under evaluation as an affordable counter to small drones and swarms. By converting standard 70 mm Hydra rockets into precision weapons effective from 5 to 8 km, the system allows F-16s to carry up to 42 guided rounds per sortie—offering a cost-effective alternative to expending high-value missiles.
The outcome of the AIM-120D request carries strategic weight. Approval would strengthen U.S.-Greek defense cooperation and reinforce Washington’s role as the primary supplier to Athens. Rejection risks pushing Greece toward European alternatives, potentially complicating logistics, training, and NATO standardization. As both nations continue rapid modernization, the Aegean remains a closely watched theater where airpower decisions today will define security dynamics for decades.
SEO-Friendly Meta Description Greece seeks U.S. approval for AIM-120D missiles to arm its F-35 jets and counter Türkiye’s Meteor-equipped Typhoons, with AIM-260 JATM in sight.
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