Greece is holding talks with Israel to develop anti-aircraft and missile defense systems worth two billion euros, as part of a broader effort to modernize the Greek military, the Greek military reported. press agency Reuters Friday.
According to the information reported, these defenses should be inspired by the Iron Dome system and other systems intercepting short and long range missiles. Greece is said to be “eager” to invest in defense systems to keep pace with its NATO allies and historic rival Turkey, which is also developing its own air defense systems.
“The plan is to create a multi-layered system against planes and drones,” he told Reuters a source close to the matter after a briefing with Greek Defense Minister Níkos Déndias. “We are in discussions with Israel,” he added. Another official confirmed the scale of the potential deal and noted that Greece would have to spend 12.8 billion euros by 2035 to renew its army.
Air defense is part of the Greek government's 10-year military acquisition plan, which includes the purchase of 40 new US F-35 fighter jets and drones, as well as four Belharra frigates and French Rafale jets. “Our effort aims to quickly transition our forces into the 21st century,” said Defense Minister Níkos Déndias.
