Greece is engaged in talks with Israel to create a €2 billion ($2.11 billion) missile and air defense system, which would be similar to Israel’s Iron Dome. This initiative is part of Greece’s broader effort to modernize its military forces as the country emerges from a prolonged debt crisis, according to Greek officials on Thursday.
The new defense system is expected to intercept both short- and long-range missiles, providing protection against potential strikes from neighboring regions such as Gaza and Lebanon, where ongoing conflicts persist.
This move is also driven by Greece’s desire to enhance its military capabilities in response to Turkey, its historic rival and NATO ally, which is simultaneously developing its own air defense systems, despite recent improvements in bilateral relations.
A source with knowledge of the negotiations told media, “The plan is to create a multi-layer anti-aircraft and anti-drone system.” Discussions with Israel are ongoing, the source confirmed.
A second official verified the scope of the deal, noting that Greece must invest €12.8 billion by 2035 to upgrade its armed forces. This air defense project is part of a broader 10-year military procurement plan, which also includes the purchase of up to 40 new F-35 fighter jets and drones from the U.S., along with four Belharra frigates and Rafale jets from France.
Defence Minister Nikos Dendias emphasized the urgency of this modernization effort: “Our goal is to quickly transition our armed forces to the 21st century,” he said ahead of Thursday’s briefing.
Currently, Greece relies on U.S. Patriot missiles and older Russian S-300 systems for air defense.
Despite a slight thaw in relations with Turkey, the two countries remain at odds over several issues, including maritime boundaries, energy resources, and airspace in the eastern Mediterranean.