Greece yesterday announced its intention to acquire 18 Rafale fighter jets for its air force amid rising tensions with Turkey over rights to resources in the eastern Mediterranean. Dassault Aviation says the move illustrates the strength of the partnership that has linked the Greek Air Force and the aircraft manufacturer for more than 45 years and also 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.

Eric Trappier, chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, said: “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.”

With over 10,000 military and civil aircraft delivered in more than 90 countries over the last century, Dassault Aviation has built up expertise recognised world-wide in the design, development, sale and support of all types of aircraft, ranging from the Rafale fighter, to the high-end Falcon family of business jets, military drones and space systems.

Dassault Aviation, which employs 12,750 people, reported revenues of 7.3 billion euros in 2019.