Greece has signed an agreement worth around €3 billion with Israel to develop an advanced national air defense system known as the “Achilles Shield.”
The deal, described as the largest defense export contract in the history of relations between Greece and Israel, aims to establish a multilayered defensive network capable of countering missiles, aircraft and drones.
The system is expected to incorporate Israeli technologies including David’s Sling, Barak MX and SPYDER, alongside air-surveillance radars and a new national command-and-control system.
Greek defense authorities have described the investment as part of the largest modernization and reform program in the history of the country’s armed forces.
Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias said recent technological developments had rendered many traditional military doctrines outdated, underlining the need for Greece to adapt its defense capabilities to modern threats.
Focus on Missiles and Drone Threats
In addition to the main agreement, Greece signed a separate €26 million contract for counter-drone systems.
The investments reflect the growing importance of air and missile defense as militaries increasingly face threats from drones, precision missiles and other advanced technologies.
The Achilles Shield is designed to provide Greece with multiple layers of protection, combining systems capable of addressing threats at different ranges and altitudes.
The agreement comes amid continuing regional tensions, particularly between Greece and Turkey, while Athens has continued efforts to strengthen and modernize its armed forces.
Deepening Greece-Israel Military Cooperation
The deal also highlights the growing defense and security partnership between Greece and Israel.
The two countries have significantly expanded military cooperation in recent years, viewing regional security and stability as areas of shared strategic interest.
With the Achilles Shield project, Greece is set to further integrate Israeli defense technology into its national security architecture as it pursues a broader modernization of its armed forces.
