Precursor expression of interest in acquiring 49% of it ODA today’s presentation Lockheed Martin in Tanagra, where infrastructures built by an American company in the context of cooperation with Greece will be presented. An important element of today’s presentation will, of course, be another upgraded F-16 Viper which will be delivered to air force, bringing the total to 5 (out of 83 updated). The Ministry of Development yesterday published a request for a strategic investor to enter the authorized capital of the new ODA in the amount of up to 49%, and those who wish can submit proposals until February 10.

Yesterday, the Ministry of Development published a request for the entry of a strategic investor – Interest from Lockheed Martin.

Lockheed Martin Executive Vice President Aeronautics Greg Ulmer spoke to reporters yesterday, initially expressing the company’s interest in the process. In addition, the American aviation giant is currently ODA’s largest customer. Mr. Ulmer stressed that the new upgraded Greek F-16s are currently the most advanced fighter of its type in all of Europe, stressing that they will largely have the same systems as the F-35. Mr. Ulmer and current Vice President of Lockheed Martin Denis Plessas noted that the F-35 program remains a response from the American side (letter of offer and acceptance). At the moment, the American company is negotiating with PA on which base is more likely to host the F-35 (Araxos, Andravida, Larisa, Souda).

Asked when the country could receive the new F-16 type if an order is placed today, Mr. Ulmer suggested that delivery could not take place before 2027-2028. Mr. Ulmer’s response largely and roughly outlines the schedule for the delivery of Turkish F-16s, if and when the matter comes from the American side. Lockheed representatives also mentioned the PA C-130 aircraft, which are either in need of modernization or replacement. As Mr. Plessas noted, the modernization of some S-130s and possibly the delivery of new ones is an issue that will be raised sooner or later. Recall that the S-130 P.A. they face significant accessibility issues, prompting the Department of National Defense to look for solutions that will allow them to operate again. EAB is one of the factories producing C-130 parts for global production. Lockheed also mentioned the modernization of 38 F-16 Block 50s, which Athens decided, as well as the possibility of expanding cooperation with Greece in the field of flying tankers.