Greece confirms it is to join the Eurofighter Programme
;Eurofighter GmbH welcomes today's confirmation by the Greek Government of their decision to join the four nation Eurofigher programme and introduce 60 to 90 aircraft into service with the Hellenic Air Force (HAF). This will provide the HAF with the world's most capable multi-role fighter aircraft and ensure their national security for decades to come. The Greek Government has already started negotiations with the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) and the Eurofighter industrial consortium earlier this month. Their intention is to finalise a contract this year. Brian Phillipson, Managing Director of Eurofighter GmbH, commented: "Eurofighter is uniquely capable of meeting Greece's air defence requirements. It is also the most cost-effective solution for Greece. Joining the Eurofighter programme will tie the Greek Government, Air Force and Industry even more closely to NATO and Europe, bringing defence, financial and commercial benefits. Membership in the programme will enable the Greek government to actively take part in the continuous development and growth of the weapon system. It will also provide access to the programme's very advanced technologies as well as full insight into the programme's time schedules and budgets. Furthermore it will strengthen Greece's aerospace and defence industry as a long term partner in major aerospace programmes." The Eurofighter production programme is proceeding on time and budget with manufacturing of many components and major structural elements well underway. The first production aircraft will fly in 2001 with deliveries to the four launch nations beginning in 2002.
Related communique issued by Eurofighter on April 28th : Greece confirms it is to join the Eurofighter Programme
