Israel and Greece Sign Historic $3 Billion Air Defense Deal

Israel and Greece have signed a landmark defense agreement worth approximately 3 billion euros (over $3.2 billion USD), marking the largest such deal in the security relations between the two nations and one of the largest in Israel's history. Under the "Achilles Shield" program, Israel will establish a multi-layered air defense system for Greece, utilizing Israeli-made technology and operational experience.

The comprehensive defense array will include Israel's David's Sling missile defense system, the Barak MX system from Israel Aerospace Industries, and Rafael's SPYDER system. It will also incorporate MMR multi-mission radars and a new national command and control system, all designed to counter a wide range of threats including ballistic missiles, aerial attacks, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

A supplementary deal worth 26 million euros ($28 million USD) was also signed, providing Greece with Rafael's DRONE DOME systems to defend strategic sites against drones and enhance existing defense capabilities. This agreement signifies a deeper security and industrial cooperation between Israel and Greece, including knowledge and technology transfer to the Greek industry.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that the deal underscores shared strategic interests and common regional challenges, emphasizing that both nations will continue to deepen their security and strategic collaboration to maintain stability and protect their mutual interests. Officials from the Israeli Ministry of Defense highlighted the deal as a testament to Greece's trust in Israeli defense systems and operational expertise, and as a strategic step to expand defense exports, bolster the IDF, and strengthen Israel's defense industry and economy.

Rafael's chairman noted that Greece will be the second European country to acquire the David's Sling system, reflecting confidence in Israeli innovation. The CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries added that the company has been increasing its activities in Greece due to evolving regional threats, citing the effectiveness of their air defense systems against Iranian threats.