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Hellenic Air Force SQN 343
© John Lekkas © John Lekkas
343 Squadron“ Asteri”
Hellenic SEAD operations are centered on two of the HAF’ s most capable and historic fighter squadrons: 341 Squadron“ Arrow” and 343 Squadron“ Star.” Their motto—“ First in, Last out”— reflects the spirit of elite aviators tasked with entering hostile airspace first, suppressing enemy air defenses, and protecting strike formations. Both squadrons fly F‐16s and train extensively for SEAD, fighter sweep, and combat air patrol missions across the complex Aegean environment. As SEAD and force‐protection units, 341 and 343 Squadrons play a critical role in Composite Air Operations( COMAO). Their missions fall into two categories. The first is force protection: neutralizing surface‐to‐air systems so strike aircraft can pass
safely, then sweeping the skies of aerial threats. The second is dedicated SEAD, focusing solely on locating, suppressing, or destroying enemy air‐defense networks. In these scenarios, other platforms— such as upgraded F‐4E AUPs with precision weapons— often attack the enemy radars and missile systems while the F‐16s provide escort and electronic suppression. Night operations are also central to squadron training. 343 Squadron’ s NVIS‐compatible aircraft and widespread use of night‐vision goggles allow pilots to maintain formation in darkness, maximize radar coverage, and detect aircraft or missile signatures from long distances. The ability to operate seamlessly day or night is essential for survivability and mission success in a rapidly changing electromagnetic environment.
© John Lekkas
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