Israel Signs Massive $3.2 Billion Air Defense Deal With Greece

Israel's Ministry of Defense and Greece's Ministry of National Defense have signed a landmark defense agreement valued at approximately 3 billion euros (over $10 billion USD). Under the terms of the deal, Israel will establish a comprehensive, multi-layered air defense system for Greece, utilizing Israeli-developed architecture, systems, and operational experience gained from recent conflicts.

The agreement, dubbed 'Achilles Shield' in Greece, is one of the largest defense contracts in the country's history. It marks the first time Israel will provide a complete air defense array capable of countering a wide range of threats, including ballistic missiles, aerial attacks, and hostile unmanned aerial vehicles.

The system will incorporate several key Israeli technologies: the David's Sling system, developed by the Ministry of Defense's 'Homa' Directorate and Rafael; the Barak MX system from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI); the Spyder system from Rafael; MMR multi-mission radars from IAI's Elta Group for air control; and a new national command and control system, led by Rafael, to integrate all air defense capabilities.

Additionally, a supplementary deal worth 26 million euros (about $92 million USD) was signed for the sale of Rafael's Drone Dome systems to protect strategic sites from drones and UAVs. This agreement also includes enhanced industrial-military cooperation, knowledge transfer, and technology sharing with the Greek defense industry.

The deal signifies a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between Israel and Greece, a key ally in the Eastern Mediterranean. Greece's selection of Israeli technology underscores the deep trust built between the two nations.