Greece has decided to focus its near-term defence plans on F-35 fighter jets and Camcopter S-100 rotary-wing UAVs for frigates. Greek news agency ERT’s news on the subject states that the Greek National Security Council has decided to prioritise the F-35 and the fitting of upcoming Kimon-class frigates with the Camcopter S-100 UAV. The sale of the F-35 was approved by the U.S. and announced on DSCA. The sale only consisted of 40 F-35A CTOL fighters and their support equipment, which was stated to cost $8.6 billion. However, the numbers might change if Greece makes the purchase.
To modernise its air force, Greece has purchased F-16 Block 70 upgrade kits and French Rafale fighter jets, and a portion of orders have been delivered. Campcopter S-100 is widespread throughout the European navies. It is mainly a surveillance platform to accompany helicopters with much lower operating costs. The UAV’s standard loadout consists of an EO/IR gimbal, but other options like SAR and lightweight missiles like the LMM have been studied. After the Hellenic Navy’s bitter experiences in the Red Sea against Houthi weaponry, the interest in Camcopter S-100 might have increased for a better remote sensing capability.
