The Hellenic Air Force will begin training its first batch of F-35 fighter jet pilots in the United States by September, as part of Greece’s multi-year acquisition program for the fifth-generation aircraft, Kathimerini reported on Thursday.
According to the report, 14 pilots and 60 technicians are set to depart for the U.S. this summer. While Greece is not expected to receive its first F-35 jets until the early 2030s, training is being launched ahead of time due to the system’s complexity.
Initial pilot instruction will take place at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, where aviators must complete at least 192 hours in simulators before their maiden flight, given the F-35’s lack of a two-seat training variant. Technicians will begin training at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, using digital platforms and mock-ups before transitioning to hands-on maintenance.
Meanwhile, Greek Air Force officials are expected to travel to Washington to join the Joint Program Office (JPO), which oversees the F-35 program among partner nations. Their role will be to coordinate delivery schedules, integration, and logistical support for the 20 aircraft Greece plans to acquire.
The program remains on track, with a contract between the U.S. government and manufacturer Lockheed Martin anticipated soon, signaling the start of production.
Athens is also monitoring discussions around Turkey’s potential return to the F-35 program. However, due to existing production schedules, any Turkish deliveries would come after Greece’s, Kathimerini noted.
While Turkey maintains a numerical edge in its air fleet, Greek officials believe the combination of Rafale fighters and Meteor air-to-air missiles gives Athens a qualitative advantage. Additional French aircraft and surveillance systems could be considered should Ankara rejoin the program.
