Greek government disputes Tsipras over F-35 and F-16 defense programs

Greek government sources and spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis have issued a sharp rebuttal to former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras regarding the country’s military procurement and defense status.

The dispute centers on the F-35 and F-16 fighter jet programs. Tsipras and the Hellenic Left Symparaxia (ELAS) have criticized the government, suggesting a national setback regarding Turkey’s potential involvement in F-35 programs. In response, government officials cited U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s statements, noting that strict Congressional laws and the NDAA prevent Turkey from acquiring F-35s for years to come due to its purchase of Russian S-400 systems.

Marinakis asserted that Greece has seen a complete reversal in its defense capabilities under the New Democracy government. He stated that while Greece was in the ‘dark’ regarding these programs previously, the country has now secured F-35 orders with the first deliveries expected in 2029 and is actively modernizing its F-16 fleet. The government accused Tsipras of engaging in ‘cheap opposition’ that harms national interests by distorting facts regarding military readiness and international agreements.