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Greece is moving to strengthen the weapons arsenal of its AH‑64 Apache attack helicopters through a planned purchase of new laser‑guided Hellfire missiles under a $64 million agreement with the US.
The Hellenic Army Aviation has operated older versions of the Hellfire missile for many years, and officials view the new order as part of a broader decision “to not allow the devaluation of these helicopters,” according to the report.
The Army Aviation fleet includes 28 Apaches, 19 of the older and harder‑to‑maintain A‑type and nine of the newer D‑type.
The acquisition will be carried out through US Foreign Military Financing, a mechanism available to allied countries.
The missiles are among the core weapons for the Apaches, which are already undergoing upgrades by Israeli contractors.
The aircraft are receiving new electro‑optical systems and Spike NLOS anti‑tank missiles with a range of 32 kilometers, capable of striking while in concealment.
Athens is additionally examining a request for 30 AH‑64D Longbow helicopters as US forces retire more than 100 of that type. Meanwhile, Army Aviation is preparing for pilot training and the arrival of 35 UH‑60 Black Hawks in 2027 and 2028.