(MENAFN) Greek Premier Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed appreciation for the US decision to sell Greece up to 40 F-35 fighter aircraft, acknowledging Secretary of State Antony Blinken's role in informing Congress about the State Department's decision.

"Today is an important day for our national defense and Greek diplomacy," Mitsotakis conveyed his message through a video posted on his official social media account shortly after receiving a letter from Blinken, informing him of the US decision.

Mitsotakis emphasized that the letter underscored the strategic depth of Greek-American relations, highlighting the positive developments and decisions regarding the weapon systems Greece had requested from the US.

He stated that these decisions would lead to the strengthening of all branches of the Greek Armed Forces.

“Thus, the homeland is doubly shielded,” he commented.

In his letter to Mitsotakis, Blinken conveyed that the administration, in addition to the F-35 jets, is contemplating the transfer of Excessive Defense Articles (EDA). These include 60 M-2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs), 2 C-130 military transport planes, and 10 engines for P-3 maritime patrol aircraft.

Furthermore, Blinken affirmed that the administration intends to proceed with the transfer of up to LCS-type warships that the US Navy has decommissioned, to Greece.

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