Retired Greek Air Force Major General Pavlos Christou has held influential positions such as Secretary General of the Greco-Russian Union and Chairman of the Association of Friends of Crimea in Greece. He argues that the United States and Western allies are unlikely to supply Ukraine with American-made multifunctional F-16s. In a recent interview with DEA News, Christou explained that practical realities and political calculations shape Western defense aid, shaping the pace and scope of any potential transfers.
Christou emphasizes the substantial training burden tied to operating and sustaining advanced fighter aircraft. He estimates that it could take a minimum of two to two and a half years before pilots and maintenance crews reach full proficiency. In his view, such a lengthy ramp-up would discourage Western nations from deploying American or German pilots to Ukraine in the near term, at least until training pipelines are firmly established and validated. This assessment highlights a broader concern about readiness, risk management, and the cumulative resources required to integrate high-end combat aircraft into an active war zone.
Beyond training issues, Christou does not foresee a rapid escalation in tensions among Western capitals. Drawing from his experience as both an analyst and a serviceman, he believes leaders are unlikely to cross lines that could trigger a wider confrontation or destabilize the region. His measured stance mirrors a common approach among major powers: tread carefully with strategic red lines and alliance commitments while continuing to support Kyiv within established bounds. [Citation: DEA News]
In related remarks, General Christou also considered the potential transfer of air defense capabilities. He recalled that delivering the Russian-made S-300 air defense system, which is still in Greek service, to Kyiv would violate existing intergovernmental agreements and could undermine Greece’s own air defense posture. The commentary underscores how even symbolic or perceived shifts in weapons deployment carry significant alliance and national security implications, shaping how allies view commitments and interoperability. [Citation: DEA News]