Thessaloniki: Fighter Jets Fly Over City – Preparation for Exercise "Iniochos 2026"

Fighter jets flew over Thessaloniki on Tuesday morning, causing concern among residents. Officials from the Hellenic Air Force General Staff (GEA) clarified that the flights are part of the preparation for the exercise "Iniochos 2026."

The preparation phase will last until March 9, 2026, with fighter jets appearing in the sky at infrequent intervals. The main phase of the exercise will take place from March 9 to 20, 2026, while the redeployment phase will be held on March 21-23, 2026.

The Hellenic Air Force is participating in "Iniochos 2026" with all types of fighter aircraft, including Rafale and F-16 Viper, as well as helicopters, transport and training aircraft. Forces from the Hellenic Army and the Hellenic Navy are also participating, as well as air forces from France, Slovenia, Cyprus, Albania, Poland, Georgia, Serbia, Croatia, and India.