The 347th squadron was established in 1977 as a bomber squadron in Souda Bay, equiped with A-7 Corsair jets, and flew until 1992, when the unit was stoped. Three years later a decision was made to re-organize the 347th at the 111th Combat Wing, Nea Anchialos AB, with the F-16C/D Block 50 (Fighting Falcon). Training was done in the US.
7th of July, 1997 is the date of the re-establishment of the 347th, staff began receiving preparation of the new jet, and on the 25th of july, 1997 the first four F-16C/D Block 50 landed, all deliveries were completed on the 25th of june, 1998 with the arrival of the twentieth aircraft to the squadron. – www.haf.gr
The unit is now named as the 347th Fighter-Bomber and Interception Squadron “Perseus” and still flies the F-16C/D Block 50, part of the 111th Combat Wing.
On Friday February 3rd, 2017 the 347th Squadron celebrated its 40-year anniversary since its foundation at the 111th Combat Wing (111 CW) at the Nea Agchialou Air Force Base, with the presence of the Chief of the Tactical Air Force, Lt. General pilot Georgios Blioumis.
The event consisted of a blessing, the announcement of the Daily Order by the Squadron’s Commander, Major pilot Vasilio Apostolaki, a static exhibition and a photo display.
Amongst those also present at the celebration, were other Squadron Commanders, current and retired staff of the Squadron, delegates and officials of the Hellenic Armed Forces, along with a large amount of invited guests. – www.haf.gr
We visited Nea Anchialos in 2012 during the Open House, you can see some photos HERE
Photos provided by the Hellenic Air Force General Staff Spokesman
