The Israeli IAF and the Hellenic Air Force have executed a long-range attack drill focusing on potential Iranian nuclear threats.
Scope and objectives of the joint military exercise
In a joint maneuver, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) and the Hellenic Air Force conducted an advanced simulation operation to face potential contingencies against Iran and its nuclear infrastructure.
The deployment, which lasted 48 hours, included various aerospace tactical operations: long-haul flights, high-altitude resupply techniques, low-altitude flight maneuvers and the execution of live fire.
The mobilization involved dozens of IAF fighters, aerial intelligence units and logistics refueling aircraft that traversed thousands of kilometers between Israel and Greece.
Operations in adverse conditions and Hellenic collaboration
The IDF confirmed that the fighters carried out low-altitude operations during the drill, launching live ammunition in previously designated sectors. This process was carried out in challenging climatic circumstances due to the recent flooding caused by Mediterranean Storm Daniel.
The active collaboration of the Hellenic air units that accompanied long-range missions in their territory is highlighted, seeking synergy and “mutual learning” with the IAF forces.
In the words of the commander of the 106 squadrons, Lieutenant Colonel “Mem”, the strategic cooperation with Greece and the aspiration to strengthen the operational capabilities of the IAF were recognized, especially in the face of complex scenarios and with intelligence limitations.
Strategic objectives and long-term perspective
Fighter jets from the Israeli Air Force and Hellenic Air Force fly over Greece during a September 13, 2023 drill. (Israel Defense Forces)“The main purpose of the exercise lies in strengthening bilateral cooperation and optimizing the IAF’s preparation for long-range flights and extreme challenges,” said “Mem.”
This aerial exercise is not isolated. It is part of a set of operations and tactical models developed by the IAF in the last year. The goal is to enhance operational competence, improve resupply techniques, execute attacks deep in enemy territory and achieve airspace supremacy.
Joint Aerospace Deployment in Adverse Scenarios
IAF and its Hellenic counterpart conducted maneuvers that included high-intensity air operations, mid-air refueling techniques and live ammunition drop. Operational integration allowed both air forces to refine tactics, techniques and procedures in adverse atmospheric conditions, marked by the impact of Mediterranean Storm Daniel.
These maneuvers not only validated interoperability between air forces but also reinforced combat doctrine for deep operations, especially in hostile or unknown territories.
Lieutenant Colonel “Mem” of 106 Squadron underlined the value of such drills for bilateral cooperation and enhancing the IAF’s preparedness for complex combat scenarios.
Israeli-American Strategic Rapprochements
The IDF plans to conduct joint exercises with the United States armed forces. Such maneuvers are expected to simulate possible clashes against strategic Iranian nuclear facilities, reflecting the growing regional tension.
This cooperation is situated in a broader context, where Israel has urged the United States to develop military contingency plans if Iran achieves nuclear weapons capabilities.
Despite President Joe Biden’s stated preference to explore diplomatic solutions, Israel maintains a posture of alert and military readiness.
The Implications of the Iranian Nuclear Program
The central argument for concern lies in Tehran’s nuclear capabilities. Although Iran maintains the peaceful nature of its program, nonproliferation experts have noted that it possesses enough 60% enriched uranium to develop, if it so chooses, a nuclear device.
Additionally, Iran’s geopolitical influence extends through its proxies in strategic regions, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and various factions in Syria and Iraq, presenting multiple fronts of concern for Israel.
