France has offered Greece a deal to exchange its Mirage 2000 fighter jets for Rafale aircraft.
This was reported by French Aid to Europe and e-Αmyna, citing an offer from Dassault Aviation, which French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to present during his visit to Greece on April 24.
The agreement provides for the transfer of 43 aircraft, including 24 Mirage 2000-5 jets and 19 decommissioned Mirage 2000 EGM/BGM aircraft, along with spare parts.
The French side offers to provide a “similar number” of Rafale fighter jets at a discounted price. The specific terms of the agreement and the exact cost of the equipment are to be clarified by both sides during negotiations.
Through the exchange, the 114th Fighter Wing would be able to fully equip two squadrons, totaling 36 Rafale aircraft.
France is increasing pressure on Greece to transfer the fighter jets already in service with the Ukrainian Air Force.
The issue has become more urgent amid intensified Franco-Greek defense contacts, as France seeks broader support for Ukraine.
Greece’s plans to phase out and sell older fighter models first became known in March 2024.
At that time, Defense Minister Nikos Dendias confirmed government plans for a major restructuring of the Greek armed forces as part of “the largest reform program in the history of the modern Greek state.”
For this purpose, the Hellenic Air Force is considering purchasing a batch of French Rafale fighter jets in the F4.3 version.
An order for Rafale F5s is also not ruled out if they become available by 2030, although their entry into service is not expected before 2035.
One of the reasons for the new procurement is the planned retirement of Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets, with Dassault support set to end after 2027.
