Greece Advances Israel-Based 'Achilles Shield' Air Defense System Amid Turkey Tensions

Greece is moving forward with a significant phase in developing its new multi-layered air defense system called "Achilles Shield," designed to protect the country from ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, drones, aircraft, and maritime threats. The project heavily relies on Israeli defense technologies amid ongoing tensions between Greece and Turkey, which also has strained relations with Israel.

According to the Greek newspaper Kathimerini, the initiative marks a new era in Greece's defense strategy, aiming to create a layered protection network similar to Israel's, which has been shaped by recent operational experience. The system will integrate radars, command and control systems, counter-drone capabilities, and interception systems with varying ranges.

The initial phase of the project is estimated at around 3 billion euros and includes acquiring advanced Israeli systems such as the Israeli Aerospace Industries' Barak missile family, Rafael's Iron Dome, and Spyder systems. These will be integrated with Greece's existing defense assets, including Patriot missile batteries, gradually replacing older systems to enhance Greece's ability to counter diverse aerial threats.

This move further strengthens the security cooperation between Israel and Greece, especially against the backdrop of ongoing tensions involving Turkey and Cyprus. For Israeli defense industries, this deal represents one of the largest recent export contracts, reinforcing their position in the European market.

Athens explains that "Achilles Shield" will also relieve the Greek Air Force and Navy from routine defense duties, allowing them to focus on offensive and deterrence missions amid the persistent regional security challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean.