Denis Plessas, a prominent figure in the aerospace industry associated with Greek F-16 and F-35 projects, has sadly passed away after battling aggressive cancer.
As the Vice President of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics International, Plessas oversaw initiatives in the Americas, Africa, Greece, and Italy. He was pivotal in leading successful campaigns for F-16, C-130J, and P-3 sales across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Additionally, he actively contributed to introducing the JSF (F-35) program in Europe.
Plessas commenced his aerospace career in 1976 at the Hellenic Aerospace Industry (EAB), an organization operated by the Lockheed Aircraft Service Company in Greece. Over the years, he negotiated significant contracts with USAFE, NAMSA, NATO organizations, Airbus, Aerospatiale, and Alenia, showcasing his expertise and dedication.
Joining Lockheed Aircraft Service Company (LAS) in August 1983, Plessas took on international business development responsibilities for the Middle East. His exceptional contributions led to his promotion to the Director of International Programs for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa in December 1988. By 1991, he assumed the role of Vice President of International Programs and later Vice President of International Business Development Initiatives for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics/International in 1995.
Plessas was actively involved in various esteemed organizations, serving as a member of the Hellenic American Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Hellenic Technical Chamber, the Aeronautical Academy of Greece, and the Royal Aeronautical Society.
Educationally, Plessas held a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Cairo University (1973) and a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Technical University of Athens (1973). He pursued postgraduate studies in the UK, obtaining master's degrees in aircraft design (1974) and aeronautical engineering (1975) from Cranfield Institute of Technology. Additionally, in 1976, he achieved a master's degree in management science from the Imperial College of Science & Technology in London.
Denis Plessas is survived by his wife, Georgia and their two children, Sophia and Spyros. His legacy in the aerospace industry and his contributions to the Greek F-16 and F-35 projects will be remembered.
