Hellenic Aerospace Industry

Hellenic Aerospace Industry S.A. (Ελληνική Αεροπορική Βιομηχανία Α.Ε.) is a Greek aerospace and defence company. According to its official website, it was founded in 1975 and its main mission is the provision of services and products supporting the Hellenic Armed Forces. The company describes itself as the largest aeronautical and defence company in the country, combining cutting-edge technologies with certified production processes and a well-trained, experienced workforce. Its stated vision is to become a leading force in the aeronautics and defence sector in Southeastern Europe and the MENA region, providing stable and efficient support to the Hellenic Armed Forces and national security forces through innovative and quality solutions.

According to the company's official history page, Law 43/75 concerning the establishment of the 'National Aviation Material Industry' was published in the Government Gazette on 16 May 1975. On 26 November 1975, the contract for the creation of the new company was signed between the Greek State and five American counterpart companies. On 21 September 1977, Law 696/77 was published in the Government Gazette, amending and supplementing Law 43/75, and the National Aviation Material Industry was renamed 'Hellenic Aerospace Industry S.A.'. On 4 February 1977, Prime Minister Konstantinos Karamanlis laid the foundation stone of HAI and construction work on the facilities began. On 30 May 1979, the first aircraft, an F-4E, was delivered to the Air Force after the successful completion of its factory maintenance. On 20 December 1979, the official inauguration of the company took place. On 2 November 1988, the foundation was laid for the aeronautical structures building. On 16 March 2001, the construction of the 100,000-pound high-thrust engine test cell was completed. On 3 December 2001, the inauguration of the Church of Saint Eugenia within the company grounds took place. On 24 February 2006, the foundation was laid for the Composite Materials Aeronautical Manufacturing Unit. On 17 January 2008, the Aircraft Dry Stripping Unit was inaugurated, using plastic beads, the most environmentally friendly technology fully harmonized with the strictest environmental standards worldwide.

The largest aeronautical and defence company in the country, aiming to become a leading force in the aeronautics and defence sector in Southeastern Europe and the MENA region.

1. 1Αρχική - Ελληνική Αεροπορική Βιομηχανίαhaicorp.com
2. 2Ιστορία - Ελληνική Αεροπορική Βιομηχανίαhaicorp.com