Greece’s 120 Air Training Wing in Kalamata earns NFTE certification, becoming a NATO-accredited training center for allied pilots, enhancing Greece’s international defense role.
A new chapter has opened for the Hellenic Air Force and Greece’s international defense presence. The 120 Air Training Wing (120 ATW), based in Kalamata, has officially been certified as an NFTE Accredited Campus, marking its inclusion in NATO’s strategic plan for joint pilot training in Europe.
The milestone announcement was made during the 11th Steering Board session of the NATO Flight Training Europe (NFTE) program, held in Cagliari, Sardinia.
What This Certification Means for Greece
With this accreditation, the 120 ATW is now recognized as an official NATO Flight Training Center, with a mission to train pilots from allied nations. Training will be conducted using:
- T-6A Texan II aircraft for Phase 2 (basic flight training)
- M-346A Master aircraft for Phases 3 and 4 (advanced and tactical training)
This development significantly enhances Greece’s international standing in military aviation training and integrates the country into NATO’s broader strategic vision for pilot training autonomy and sustainability across Europe.
About the NFTE Program
The NATO Flight Training Europe (NFTE) initiative is a pioneering effort aimed at building a unified, multinational network of flight training centers. It serves to:
- Alleviate the financial strain on smaller national training programs
- Promote cooperation, interoperability, and shared expertise among allies
- Reduce NATO’s reliance on U.S.-based training infrastructure
By establishing a robust European framework for flight training, the NFTE ensures alliance-wide readiness, efficiency, and adaptability in an increasingly dynamic global security environment.
Thirteen countries are currently part of the NFTE initiative, with Greece now emerging as a key player in this multinational endeavor.
Strategic and International Recognition
The certification of the 120 ATW is more than just an honorary achievement. It represents a strategic upgrade for the Hellenic Air Force and a testament to the high standards of Greek military training. It highlights the excellence of both the infrastructure and personnel of the Kalamata airbase and confirms Greece’s capability to support the training needs of allied air forces at the highest level.
As NATO continues to reshape its training ecosystem, Greece’s active role in NFTE signals its commitment to collective security, operational readiness, and regional leadership in defense cooperation.