US diplomatic chief visits Athens to discuss F-16 upgrades and F-35 weapons package

Marco Rubio’s trip to Athens combined high-level diplomatic symbolism with a focus on defence sales. He presented US offers to retrofit the ageing F-16 Block 50 fleet and to install self-protection suites on the F-16 Viper aircraft, while the Greek Air Force is awaiting a response on pricing and availability. The visit also served to formalise Greece’s purchase of 20 fifth-generation F-35 jets, a deal that excludes weapons and will require a separate armament agreement.

Greek officials noted US concerns that recent contracts have heavily involved French and Israeli companies, prompting a push for more US-origin systems. In parallel, the Greek Air Force General Staff is evaluating Israeli-made self-protection equipment as a lower-cost option. Rubi​o’s agenda included meetings with Foreign Minister Γιώργο Γεραπετρίτη, a strategic dialogue session, a speech at the Pnyx, and a reception with Prime Minister Κυριάκος Μητσοτάκης.