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HAI delivers last upgraded F-16 Block 40 as part of CCIP/STAR program

December 22, 2010 (by Asif Shamim) - The last upgraded block 40 F-16 (#89-2039) was handed over by Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) to the United Start Air Force at Tanagra, Greece on December 15.

USAF F-16C block 40 #89-2039 from the 555th FS is the last block 40 to be STAR/CCIP upgraded by HAI

HAI upgraded the electronic and structural modification (STAR/CCIP) as part of a program started in 2007 for 94 F-16 block 40 and block 50 aircraft for the United States Air Force in Europe (USAFE).

The ceremony marked the completion of the work on the block 40s and by December of 2013 work on the block 50s will also be completed.

Following a demanding delivery schedule, Mr. Tassos Philippakos, Chief Executive Officer of HAI, congratulated the employees of Hellenic Aerospace Industry. He also stated that the accomplishment of such a demanding task would have been impossible without their technological skills and dedication.

Also attending the ceremony was U.S. Ambassador Daniel V. Speckhard who emphasized that the USAFE's use of F-16s upgraded in Greece shows the trust Americans have in Greek industry.

Mr. Philippakos also passed thanks onto Lockheed Martin Aeronautics for its contribution during the important preparation phase of this project, and the officials representing Hill, Aviano and Spangdahlem Air Force Bases for their technical assistance and support throughout the project.