In a significant boost to its defense capabilities, Greece has committed to a substantial investment in modern military technology. The nation has finalized a deal to acquire a state-of-the-art multi-layer air defense system from Israel, valued at up to €3.5 billion ($4 billion), alongside various drones and military aircraft.
Details of the Defense Acquisition
The Greek security council, known as KYSEA, gave initial approval to this purchase earlier in the year, with formal procurement contracts being authorized on Thursday. Greece’s defense minister, Nikos Dendias, confirmed this development to the media.
At the core of this defense upgrade is the “Achilles Shield,” a comprehensive anti-ballistic, anti-aircraft, and anti-drone system. This system will incorporate advanced radars and missiles from Israeli defense firms Rafael and IAI. Dendias highlighted that the system is projected to be fully operational within 35 months and that Greek companies will contribute to producing at least 25% of it.
Expanding Military Capabilities
Currently, Greece relies on U.S. Patriot systems and older Russian S-300 systems for airspace protection. However, the country is embarking on an extensive modernization plan, aiming to allocate approximately €28 billion by 2036 to upgrade its armed forces. This strategy includes procuring up to 40 F-35 fighter jets from the United States and new frigates from France and Italy.
Additional Military Equipment
Besides the air defense system, KYSEA has sanctioned the acquisition of three C-390 military transport aircraft from Embraer, 10 VICTA mini-submarines from the UK for special operations, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from both the U.S. and Israel, including the V-BAT and Heron UAVs.
Greece’s defense expenditure, which accounts for nearly 3.5% of its GDP, surpasses that of many NATO allies. This increased spending is partly driven by longstanding tensions with neighboring Turkey.
Greece-Israel Defense Cooperation
Greece’s collaboration with Israel extends beyond this recent procurement. The two countries maintain robust economic and diplomatic relations, operating a joint air training center on Greek soil and conducting annual military exercises together. They also work in tandem on anti-drone technology and cybersecurity initiatives.
Last year, Greece bolstered its military arsenal by purchasing 36 Israeli-made rocket artillery systems for approximately €650 million.
