Greece Set to Buy $3.5 Billion Multi-Layer Israeli Air Defense System

Greece's National Security Council (KYSEA) is expected to approve within the next day a historic deal to purchase a multi-layer air defense system from Israel valued at approximately 3.5 billion euros (around 4 billion USD). Israeli security sources confirmed the deal to Globes, while Reuters reported that the acquisition will also include drones. The system comprises Israel's David's Sling by Rafael for the upper layer, the Barak MX from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for the middle layer, and Rafael's Spyder for the lower layer.

David's Sling, a highly advanced system rarely sold internationally due to its technological sophistication, has a range of up to 300 km and can intercept cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones. It integrates radar technology developed by Elta Systems and command and control systems by Elisra, both subsidiaries of Elbit Systems. Following David's Sling's success, Israel decided in May 2024 to retire its American-made Patriot batteries. Greece, which has historically underinvested in military technology, faces a growing threat from Turkey's missile and rocket capabilities covering the entire country.

The deal initially covers defense for Thrace and the eastern Aegean Sea, with further agreements expected later. The Barak MX system supports various interceptors, including the short-range MRAD, medium-range LRAD (already used by the Israeli Navy), and long-range ER missiles, all produced by the state-owned Tomer company. The Spyder system, recently showcased to Greek Air Force leadership and sold to Romania for over 2 billion euros, provides layered defense against drones, aircraft, helicopters, and short-range ballistic missiles using Rafael's Python and Derby missiles.

This deal marks a historic achievement for Israel's Ministry of Defense, following a record 19.2 billion euros in defense exports last year, including 10 billion euros in government-to-government deals. It comes shortly after the Romanian Spyder sale and a visit by Defense Ministry Director Amir Baram to India to deepen military cooperation. Previously, Israel's largest defense export was the $3.5 billion Arrow 3 missile sale to Germany in 2023, with follow-up contracts to increase production. The Barak 8 system sale to India in 2017 was valued at $1.6 billion, with an additional $630 million for naval variants.

The Greek acquisition reflects a strategic response to Turkey's advanced fighter jets and missile threats, enhancing Greece's air defense capabilities with cutting-edge Israeli technology.