Greece has formally asked the United States to approve the sale of AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles for its incoming F-35 Lightning II fleet, aiming to maintain a decisive technological advantage over Turkey in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. According to Kathimerini, Athens is particularly interested in the AIM-120D variant, which offers enhanced range and targeting capability, making it one of the most advanced beyond-visual-range missiles currently fielded by the US and NATO allies.
The request follows growing concerns about Turkey’s efforts to arm its future Eurofighter Typhoon jets with MBDA’s Meteor missile, a long-range weapon widely considered a significant step above earlier-generation systems. Greek officials argue that securing access to the AIM-120D would help preserve regional balance. If Washington declines the sale, Greece is reportedly prepared to pursue the Meteor for its F-35s as an alternative, a move that could shift future procurement opportunities toward European defense industries.
In addition to the AIM-120D, Greece has expressed interest in the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM)—the US Air Force’s next-generation air-to-air weapon expected to replace the AMRAAM in front-line units. The AIM-260 promises greater range, better survivability against countermeasures, and improved performance in highly contested airspace, making it a key long-term capability goal for partner air forces.
The AIM-120D is already in widespread use across the US Air Force and allied militaries. It is integrated on platforms such as the F-15C/D, F-16C/D, F-22 Raptor, and F-35A, while operators like Japan, Australia, South Korea, and Norway deploy it on their frontline fleets. Known for its extended reach, precision guidance, and in-flight retargeting, the missile has been used in major NATO exercises—including Red Flag and Maple Flag—and has supported operations across the Pacific, Middle East, and Europe, reinforcing its value in modern air-superiority missions.
