Greece Approves €3.5B 'Achilles Shield' Air Defense System from Israel

Published Jul 24, 03:24 PM UTC

Greece has authorized the acquisition of a comprehensive air defense system from Israel, valued at up to €3.5 billion ($4 billion), as part of a broader military modernization plan. Defense Minister Nikos Dendias announced the approval by Greece's security council KYSEA on July 23, with the system, named 'Achilles Shield,' expected to be fully operational within 35 months. Israeli firms Rafael and Israel Aerospace Industries will supply radar and missile components, with at least 25% of the system produced by Greek industry. The approval also covers Israeli-made Heron drones, Brazilian C-390 transport aircraft, British VICTA mini-submarines, and US V-BAT drones. The deal deepens defense cooperation between Greece and Israel, which already includes joint training and exercises. Greece, which allocates about 3.5% of GDP to defense, plans to spend approximately €28 billion by 2036 on military upgrades, including F-35 fighter jets and new frigates.