Greece to build €3.1bn air defense network with Israeli systems

Greece is moving ahead with a €3.1 billion program to build a nationwide air and missile defense network using Israeli-supplied systems, according to defense officials. The initiative, called Achilles Shield, is meant to combine Israeli-made defense technology with capabilities the Greek Armed Forces already operate.

The program aims to link sensors, interceptors and counter-drone systems into a single network able to respond to aircraft, drones and missile threats. Several Israeli-made systems are set to be included. Rafael's SPYDER is meant to counter aircraft, helicopters and drones. Israel Aerospace Industries' Barak MX is intended to intercept aircraft and missiles. Rafael's David's Sling is designed for heavier threats, including ballistic and cruise missiles.

Greek officials said radar and sensor data would be shared across the network so threats can be identified and the most suitable system chosen to respond. Existing U.S.-made Patriot systems already operated by Greece will also be folded into the broader architecture.

The air-defense program was approved in July as part of a larger €4.2 billion package covering eleven defense procurement efforts, with the air-defense component making up about €3.1 billion of that total. The wider package also includes the purchase of three Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft, valued at roughly €600 million, along with additional unmanned systems and other equipment.

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias said the full air-defense system is expected to be operational within 35 months of the contracts taking effect, with components delivered in stages.