Greece approved a $4 billion procurement deal to acquire a multi-layered air defense system from Israel. The package includes various drone types and Brazilian-made Embraer C-390 military transport aircraft, according to Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias.
The system, called "Achilles Shield," Will be "ready and fully operational within 35 months, starting from today," Dendias said. Israeli radars and missiles from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries will form the core of the anti-ballistic, anti-aircraft, and anti-drone capabilities. Greece will also acquire Heron unmanned aerial vehicles from Israel.
The approval is part of a broader military modernization effort planned through 2036, funded by a budget of approximately $31.8 billion. This broader initiative also encompasses 40 F-35 fighter jets from the United States and frigates from France and Italy.
Greece has grown increasingly concerned about Turkey's military expansion and rising influence in the Mediterranean. The concern has prompted closer economic and military cooperation between Greece and Israel, including joint military exercises between their armed forces.