The Hellenic Air Force (HAF) has made a significant leap forward with the graduation of its first class of pilot cadets trained on the brand new M-346 training jets at the 120 Air Training Wing, based at Kalamata Air Base in the Peloponnese. This development marks a transformative shift in pilot training, equipping cadets to operate next-generation aircraft such as the Rafale, upgraded F-16 Vipers, and the advanced F-35 fighter jets.
The program has drawn considerable international attention. Germany’s air force recently launched a two-year training initiative in Kalamata, with plans to enroll 16 German pilots annually starting in 2025. Similarly, Croatia is in discussions to begin pilot training next year. Both nations have chosen the rigorous curriculum designed by Greece, which includes foundational training on T-6 Texan II turboprops followed by advanced instruction on the M-346 jets.
The M-346, known as the “Silver Hawks,” is designed to replicate a broad range of combat scenarios and simulate the capabilities of 4th and 5th generation fighters. Its adaptability, combined with state-of-the-art flight simulators, cements Kalamata’s status as a leading international hub for military aviation training.
Global demand for pilot training has presented Greece with a unique opportunity, particularly as the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program (ENJJPT) in Texas struggles with capacity constraints. Seizing this moment, the HAF has positioned Kalamata as a premier center of excellence, drawing air forces from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
With the training cost per pilot exceeding €2.5 million, this initiative is poised to generate substantial revenue for Greece. These funds will enhance the HAF’s capabilities and support its evolution into a modern and strategically vital force in the region.
