Greece's first F-35s are approaching, possibly even ahead of schedule, and the Hellenic Air Force is now racing to answe...

Greece's first F-35s are approaching, possibly even ahead of schedule, and the Hellenic Air Force is now racing to answer the harder question: what missiles and munitions will actually arm them? The top priority is the AGM-158 JASSM precision cruise missile, but acquiring it won't be easy. According to the U.S. think tank CSIS, the United States had around 4,400 JASSM missiles before its war with Iran, and an estimated 1,100 were expended during that conflict. The Netherlands, which has 57 F-35s on order, is also lining up to buy the same missile, and American officials have already signaled a wait time of 48 months from signing to delivery, four full years. Greece is also seeking the AIM-120D, the American equivalent of the Meteor beyond-visual-range missile currently carried by its Rafales, though the U.S. has yet to approve even informal requests. The next-generation AIM-260 JATM, which is set to replace the AIM-120 entirely, is also being tracked closely by Hellenic Air Force planners. The broader picture is one of growing delay across the board. The U.S. has reportedly told European officials to expect significant holdups on American weapons deliveries, as stockpiles depleted by the Iran conflict are being prioritized for replenishment. That warning is being taken seriously in Athens. Despite those supply-side headaches, the Hellenic Air Force already fields a formidable arsenal. Its Rafales carry Meteor and Scalp EG missiles, the F-16 Vipers can carry up to four Rampage supersonic stand-off missiles each, and Spice precision-guidance kits are nearing certification. The Belharra frigates will be armed with MdCN land-attack cruise missiles by 2028, with ELSA missiles of up to 2,000 kilometers range planned further out. Greece is also evaluating Collaborative Combat Aircraft, AI-powered loyal wingman drones similar to the XQ-58 Valkyrie, to operate alongside manned fighters. A key requirement for any new system is Link 16 datalink compatibility, ensuring the Air Force, Army, and Navy can all communicate seamlessly. Officials believe Greece must submit a formal Letter of Intent to Washington by end of 2026 or 2027 at the latest, specifying exactly whi...