A long-standing pending issue for the Hellenic Air Force appears to be nearing completion, as the force is preparing to receive the main batch of new weapons for its F-16 fleet by the end of the year, according to Kathimerini sources.
The final step before the arrival of the Israeli-made Rampage and SPICE systems for Greek fighters is the issuance of an airworthiness certificate, which, according to relevant sources, is expected to be completed in September.
The integration of Rampage missiles and SPICE precision-guidance kits will provide Greek F-16s with new operational capabilities and significantly enhance the Air Force’s firepower. The upgraded Viper-version fighters, in particular, are expected to fully exploit the systems’ capabilities.
According to information obtained by Kathimerini, studies by the National Military Airworthiness Authority (ESAA) are expected to be completed within the coming weeks, allowing the necessary tests for certification to begin in early September. The certification process is required in Greece but not in Israel, meaning the relevant national authority’s studies had to be completed first. At this stage, test firings are not required for the full integration of Rampage and Spice into the Greek arsenal and will be scheduled later.
