Suddenly, the roar of its engine echoes in your mind. This isn’t just any aircraft. It’s the F-104G Starfighter, a symbol of Hellenic Air Force history, right here in Athens.
The Hellenic Air Force used the F-104G Starfighter for about 30 years. This was between 1964 and 1993. The Starfighter played a vital role in Greece’s air defense.
Greece first acquired 45 F-104Gs and six TF-104G trainers. These arrived at 114 Wing. The 335 Fighter Bomber Squadron was formed with them. The first Starfighters arrived in Piraeus by ship in March 1964. They were then moved to 114 Wing at Tanagra by trucks. Soon after, 335 Mira took part in the National Day parade over Athens in March 1964.
Two Hellenic Air Force squadrons used the Starfighter. These were 335 “Tiger” Mira and 336 “Olympus” Mira. The 335 Mira was the first F-104 squadron. It operated from Tanagra AB starting April 16, 1964.
The sister squadron, 336 Mira, received their Starfighters between December 1964 and January 1965. In December 1966, 336 Mira moved to Araxos AB. The 335 Mira continued flying from Tanagra AB until June 1977. Then, it joined 336 Mira at Araxos AB. From then until early 1993, all remaining F-104s flew from Araxos AB.
To expand the F-104 fleet, Greece acquired second-hand aircraft. These came from Spain, the Netherlands, and Germany. Some of these were used for spare parts.
In June 1972, nine F-104Gs and one TF-104G were obtained from Spain. Throughout the 1980s, Germany continuously transferred Starfighters to Greece.
The 335 “Tiger” Mira deactivated in May 1992. The 336 “Olympus” squadron deactivated March 31, 1993. March 31, 1993, was the official retirement date for the F-104G Starfighter in the Hellenic Air Force.
Today, several F-104G Starfighters are preserved across Greece. One is on display at Heros of Polytecnics Square in Kifisia, Athens. It serves as a reminder of the aircraft’s legacy. Another F-104G Starfighter is preserved at the War Museum in Athens.
Consider the pilots who soared through the skies in these jets. Each F-104G Starfighter tells a story. It speaks of skill, courage, and the defense of a nation. This aircraft embodies a significant chapter in Greek military aviation. Take a moment to appreciate the F-104G Starfighter. It is a true icon of the skies.