Greece Buys $4 Billion Multi-Layer Israeli Air Defense System to Counter Turkey Threat

Greece's National Security Council (KYSEA) approved a historic deal on July 23, 2026, to purchase a multi-layer Israeli air defense system valued at approximately 3.5 billion euros (around 4 billion USD). The acquisition includes Rafael's Iron Dome for upper-layer defense, Israel Aerospace Industries' Barak MX for mid-layer protection, and Rafael's Spyder system for the lower layer. Reuters reported the deal will also include the purchase of drones.

The Iron Dome system, rarely sold internationally due to its advanced technology, has a range of up to 300 kilometers and can intercept cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones. It incorporates Israeli-developed radar and command systems from Elta and Elisra, both part of Elbit Group. Greece, which has historically underinvested in military technology, is now addressing its strategic gap amid growing threats from Turkey, particularly missile and rocket attacks covering the entire country.

The Barak MX system supports various interceptors including the short-range MRAD, medium-range LRAD, and long-range ER missiles, with ranges from 35 to 150 kilometers. These interceptors are powered by engines produced by the state-owned Tomer company. The Barak MX is already in use by several countries, including Azerbaijan, which purchased it for $1.2 billion in November 2023.

Rafael's Spyder system, recently showcased to senior Greek Air Force officials in April 2026, was also sold to Romania in a deal exceeding 2 billion euros. Spyder defends against a wide range of aerial threats including drones, aircraft, helicopters, and short-range ballistic missiles using Python and Derby missiles.

This deal marks a historic milestone for Israel's Ministry of Defense, following a record $19.2 billion in defense exports last year, with $10 billion in government-to-government sales. It surpasses Israel's previous largest single defense export of the Arrow 3 system sold to Germany for $3.5 billion in 2023. The deal initially covers Thrace and the eastern Aegean Sea, with further acquisitions expected as Greece seeks to bolster its defenses against Turkey's missile threat.