Greece’s security council, KYSEA, is expected to give its final approval on Thursday for the purchase of a multi-layer air defence system from Israel, worth up to €3.5 billion ($4 billion), and several types of drones, two sources told Reuters.
– KYSEA gave its initial approval earlier this year and is expected to approve the procurement contracts, an official with knowledge of the deal told Reuters.
– Greece wants to build a multi-layer anti-ballistic, anti-aircraft and anti-drone system, called “Achilles Shield”. Israeli radars and missiles from Rafael and IAI will form the core of the system.
– The Greek government has said it plans to spend about €28 billion by 2036 to modernize its armed forces, including buying up to 40 new F-35 fighter jets from the U.S. and frigates from France and Italy.
– Greece spends nearly 3.5% of gross domestic product on defence, a higher proportion than many fellow NATO countries, due to its long-standing dispute with Turkey.
– With strong economic and diplomatic ties, Greece and Israel operate an air training centre on Greek territory, hold joint military annual drills and cooperate on anti-drone systems and cybersecurity.
– Greece last year approved the purchase of 36 Israeli-made rocket artillery systems for about €650 million.
– “KYSEA will also approve the purchase of drones from U.S. and Israel,” said the official.
– A second official confirmed the information on the defence system from Israel and the purchase of drones.
– Greece currently uses U.S. Patriot and old Russian S-300 systems to protect its airspace.