Greek fighter modernization program F-16 Viper is at a critical point, warns in. "Kathimerini".
Greece's leading publication cited well-informed sources as saying that the program to modernize Greece's combat aviation could either continue or fail.
The delay has prompted ongoing consultations over the past few months between the Ministry of Defense, the Air Force General Staff, the new management of the Hellenic Aerospace Industry (EAV) and the manufacturing company to ensure that the most important weapons program of the Greek armed forces will not be failed.
The main reason for the delay in the F-16 modernization program is the loss of specialized personnel from the Greek Aerospace Industry.
Resignations of qualified technicians working on the program since 2018 have been almost daily, well-informed sources say, creating significant gaps.
To fill these gaps due to the delay of more than seven months, Lockheed Martin, in cooperation with the Greek authorities, has strengthened its human resources to speed up the deliveries.
However, this, according to sources, is a temporary solution as a formula is sought to get the program back on schedule.
As a result of the interventions, the Athens Air Force received its 19th upgraded fighter a few days ago, after a series of delays and rescheduling of deliveries.
The contract originally called for delivery to take place in September 2023.
"Kathimerini" also learned that the 20th aircraft should be delivered at the end of June. They will be followed by the 21st and 22nd upgraded fighters in July, and the 23rd and 24th by October.
According to the new delivery schedule and provided there are no further delays, by the end of the year the program will be four fewer fighters and 16 aircraft will be undergoing modernization in the hangars of the Hellenic Aerospace Industry. However, competent sources told Kathimerini that the shortage will not be overcome before 2025.