Panic among vacationers: Fighthmates over Greece ensure fear!

Panic among vacationers: Fighthmates over Greece ensure fear!

Leptokarija, Griechenland - in Leptokarija, Greece, loud noises from fighter aircraft recently caused concern among vacation travelers. Many tourists expressed their fears on social media and asked for the reason for the unexpected noise. But the local population reacted calmly and clarified the holidaymakers that they are only routine military exercises.

These military exercises are carried out every Tuesday in the region. Locals emphasize that they are used to the training flights and see them as part of the normal training program of the Greek Air Force (Polemiki Aeroporia). It is advised to stay calm because there is no danger from the practice flights.

The Greek air forces at a glance

The Greek air forces are the second strongest part of the country and have around 22,000 active officers, non -commissioned officers and teams as well as around 34,000 reservists. Their origins range back to the Balkan Ranes and the First World War, when the first plane, a Henri Farman, went into service. Over the years there have been numerous developments, including the establishment of the Ministry of Aviation in 1930 and the introduction of the name "Royal Hellenic Air Force" between 1935 and 1973.

Greece invests a significant part of its gross domestic product in defense, which is often comparable to Türkiye's expenditure. The Greek air forces are responsible for monitoring the Greek airspace and have various combat aircraft, including F-16 and F-4 Phantom II. Their main base is in Athens, while important squadron in Larisa, Nea Anchialos, Souda, Araxos and Andravida are stationed.

context of military exercises

Currently NATO forces also carry out military maneuvers in Greece, especially on the Peloponnes. These exercises are part of numerous joint efforts to strengthen the willingness to defend in the region. Despite the possibly worrying noises from the airspace, the population is used to doing such exercises and sees them as a necessary element of national security.

The incidents in Leptokarija clarify that tourist areas near military exercises may be confronted with unexpected noises. It remains important that holidaymakers are informed about the background of the military activities and is understood that they are not a threat.