Israel’s Elbit Systems Selected for $1.68B Greek Flight Training Program

Elbit Systems has been selected to establish and operate the International Flight Training Center of the Hellenic Air Force for $1.68 billion.

The Hellenic Government approved the establishment and operation of the Flight Training Center by the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMoD) and Elbit Systems for an amount of approximately $1.68 billion (approximately €1.375 billion) for a period of approximately 20 years.

The anticipated contract award is contingent on completion of commercial negotiations with the Hellenic Ministry of National Defense.

The program calls for Elbit Systems to deliver training aircraft fleets equipped with the Company’s unique avionics and embedded training solutions, supply the Company’s flight simulators and training aids and provide through-life logistical support.

Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, President and CEO of Elbit Systems, said: “We are honored to have been selected to provide such an important capability to the Hellenic Air Force, which we believe will contribute to the further strengthening of the bi-lateral relationship between Israel and Greece. This selection attests to the leading position we hold in the area of training, providing tested know-how and proven technologies that improve readiness while reducing costs."

The Israeli company has beaten Canada’s CAE to win the Greek contract.

The Israel Ministry of Defense called the deal as the biggest agreement between Israel and Greece. “Following an international tender, the Greek Government approved the Israel MoD’s bidding win to establish a flight academy for the Hellenic Air Force, which will be built and operated by Elbit Systems. The agreement, which will be signed by both defense ministries also includes the procurement of ten M-346 aircraft & maintenance of T-6 aircraft, as well as the provision of simulators, training & logistic support,” the MoD said.