ATHENS, Greece, April 15 — The Hellenic Air Force (HAF) today received its 50th F-16V fighter aircraft, delivered by Lockheed Martin in partnership with Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI), as Greece continues to move forward with one of Europe’s most active fighter modernization efforts.
The transition to the Viper configuration strengthens the Hellenic Air Force’s operational capability, enhancing pilots’ ability to detect, track and respond with greater speed and precision. These capabilities were demonstrated during high-intensity, multi-aircraft operations such as Exercise INIOCHOS 2026, where advanced sensors and mission systems supported complex missions alongside allied forces.
“The delivery of the 50th F-16 Viper marks a major milestone for the program. It demonstrates that a highly demanding effort is now moving forward at a steady and accelerated pace, delivering meaningful gains to the operational capabilities of the Hellenic Air Force. We remain fully committed to completing the program with consistency and responsibility,” said Alexandros Diakopoulos, Executive Chairman of HAI.
Beyond the flightline, the F-16V program is expanding capability. With support from Lockheed Martin teams, work at HAI is equipping Greek engineers and technicians with the experience to sustain and modernize the fleet domestically, reinforcing long-term readiness.
“As the F-16V program advances, the focus extends beyond delivering advanced capability in the air to building the foundation to sustain it,” said Mike Shoemaker, vice president of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. “Lockheed Martin’s partnership with Greece is centered on building lasting capability, including investing in the people, skills and infrastructure that will support the Hellenic Air Force for years to come.”
Through this collaboration, HAI continues to strengthen its technical expertise and expand Greece’s aerospace industrial capacity. The work being carried out in Tanagra enables the Hellenic Air Force to sustain and modernize its fleet at home while supporting NATO readiness.
About F-16
The global F-16 Fighting Falcon fleet operates across the joint battlespace, flying with fifth-generation fighters and allied forces in networked operations, supported by a worldwide system for production, training and sustainment. Designed for a wide range of missions, the F-16 has flown more than 14 million sorties and logged over 21 million flight hours, reflecting sustained operational use at scale across allied and partner forces worldwide.
About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at Lockheedmartin.com
About the Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI)
The Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI), headquartered in Tanagra, is the country’s leading industrial organization in the defense and aerospace sector. With half a century of expertise, it provides integrated solutions covering maintenance, repair, and modernization of military and civil aircraft, the development of UAVs and advanced defense systems, as well as participation in international aeronautics and space programs. More information at https://haicorp.com
