Greece is negotiating with Israel to develop an anti-aircraft and missile defense system valued at €2 billion. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize the Greek armed forces as the country recovers from a prolonged debt crisis, according to Greek officials reported by Reuters.
The proposed system is expected to replicate the capabilities of Israel’s “Iron Dome,” targeting the interception of both short- and long-range missiles, similar to the ones used during attacks from Gaza and Lebanon.
Greece aims to enhance its defense capabilities to keep pace with NATO ally and historical rival, Turkey, which is also advancing its own air defense systems. Despite recent improvements in bilateral relations, Greece and Turkey remain at odds over issues like maritime borders, energy resources, and airspace rights in the Eastern Mediterranean.
According to insiders, the strategy involves creating a multi-layered anti-aircraft and anti-drone defense system. Defense Minister Nikos Dendias presented this plan during a closed-door session, explaining the need for comprehensive coverage of both mainland Greece and its Aegean islands. The system would feature mobile units to exploit Greece’s geographical advantage, with its numerous islands acting as a network of defense points.
The air defense project is part of a decade-long military procurement plan, including the acquisition of up to 40 F-35 fighter jets and drones from the U.S., as well as Rafale aircraft and Belharra frigates from France. The initiative aims to rapidly modernize the Greek armed forces for the 21st century.
Currently, Greece utilizes U.S.-made Patriot missiles and aging Russian S-300 systems for air defense. Despite diplomatic efforts, tensions with Turkey persist, underscoring the importance of enhanced defensive measures.
Με τη Νέα Δομή των Ενόπλων Δυνάμεων 2024 -35 δημιουργείται ενιαίος αντιαεροπορικός και αντί – drone «θόλος» σε εθνικό επίπεδο και σε επίπεδο μονάδας.#elladadynati pic.twitter.com/5p3uLTGd15
— Nikos Dendias (@NikosDendias) November 14, 2024
Nikos Dendias recently presented the anti-missile and anti-drone defense strategy to Greece’s Parliamentary Committee on Defense and Foreign Affairs. The plan aims to secure the country’s airspace, particularly protecting the Aegean islands and the mainland.
In a recent interview, Dendias emphasized that observing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza highlighted the necessity for Greece to develop such a protective system. He likened the envisioned structure to a “church with two overlapping domes,” signifying layered defense.
This project is part of the Greek Armed Forces’ new structure plan for 2024-2035, signaling a significant shift in national defense priorities.
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