The deployment of the Greek Battery in the region began in 2021 as part of the international “Integrated Air Missile Defense (IAMD) Concept” mission to support the air defense of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the primary role of the Hellenic Force in Saudi Arabia (ELDYSA) being the air defense of ARAMCO facilities. It should be noted that Saudi Arabia had requested an extension of coverage by the Greek PATRIOTs until 2026.

PATRIOT Capabilities

AN/MPQ-65 Radar Set

• Manufacturer: RAYTHEON
• Description: Target search and tracking radar with missile guidance
• Type: PHASED ARRAY
• Coverage: 120°
• Maximum Range: 170 km

M-901 Launching Station

• Manufacturer: RAYTHEON
• Description: Quad anti-air missile launcher
• Missile Types:
  • MIM-104D GEM (Guidance Enhanced Missile)
  • MIM-104B SOJC (Stand-Off Jammer Counter)
  • MIM-104A
• Performance:
  • Maximum Speed: 3+ Mach
  • Acceleration: 30 g
  • Maximum Engagement Altitude: 24 km
  • Maximum Range: 160 km
  • Warhead Weight: 90 kg

“Defensive action demonstrates the Armed Forces’ capability”

In statements on the matter, Marinakis rejected claims of Greece being involved in the Middle East war, noting that this was a defensive action, a deterrent measure.

The government spokesperson reiterated statements by Nikos Dendias, who emphasized that the Greek battery demonstrates how capable the Armed Forces are and the experience gained, adding that the Armed Forces indirectly but clearly protect the standard of living of Greek and European citizens.

Statement by Dendias
“This morning, the Greek PATRIOT battery in Saudi Arabia intercepted two ballistic missiles originating from Iran and heading towards the kingdom’s refineries,” said Nikos Dendias.

The Minister of National Defense noted: “In this way, the Greek battery demonstrates its capability and the experience it has gained all this time. Moreover, it indirectly but clearly protects the standard of living of Greek citizens and European citizens.”

“The continuous increase in oil prices represents a huge threat to the standard of living of Greeks, Europeans, and people worldwide. Our precision detachment also faces threats, which is another serious concern, and the protection of refineries and oil production units is extremely important in this context,” he added.

“I would like to congratulate the personnel of the Armed Forces, and the Hellenic Air Force in Saudi Arabia, for what they have achieved,” he concluded.