Greece's security council is set to approve the €3.5 billion purchase of an Israeli multi-layer air defense system called 'Achilles Shield'. The deal is part of a broader €28 billion plan to modernize the Greek armed forces by 2036, driven by long-standing disputes with Turkey. This has led Greece to spend nearly 3.5% of its GDP on defense, a higher rate than many of its NATO allies.
Achilles Shield air defense purchase
- ▪The Israeli air defense system, named "Achilles Shield," is valued at up to €3.5 billion ($4 billion)
- ▪The core of the system will consist of radars and missiles from Israeli defense firms Rafael and IAI
- ▪The "Achilles Shield" system is designed to be anti-ballistic, anti-aircraft, and anti-drone
- ▪Greece's security council, KYSEA, is expected to give final approval on July 23, 2026, for the purchase of a multi-layer air defense system from Israel
Greek military modernization program
- ▪The modernization plan includes buying up to 40 new F-35 fighter jets from the U.S. and frigates from France and Italy
- ▪The Greek government plans to spend about €28 billion by 2036 to modernize its armed forces
- ▪Greece currently uses U.S. Patriot and older Russian S-300 systems to protect its airspace
- ▪As part of the procurement, Greece's security council will also approve the purchase of drones from the U.S. and Israel
Greece-Israel defense cooperation
- ▪In 2025, Greece approved the purchase of 36 Israeli-made rocket artillery systems for approximately €650 million
- ▪Greece and Israel operate a joint air training center on Greek territory and hold annual joint military drills
NATO defense spending context
- ▪Greece spends nearly 3.5% of its gross domestic product on defense, a higher proportion than many fellow NATO countries
- ▪Greece's high level of defense spending is attributed to its long-standing dispute with Turkey
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