**Greece Set to Sign €3bn ‘Achilles Shield’ Air Defence Agreements with Israel**
Greece is poised to enhance its military capabilities significantly with the upcoming signing of agreements for the €3 billion integrated air and missile defence system, dubbed the "Achilles Shield." The agreements are set to be finalized in Tel Aviv on August 31 between Greece's General Directorate for Defence Investments and Armaments (GDDIA) and the Israeli International Defence Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT), alongside various Israeli defence entities involved in the project.
The Achilles Shield aims to create a comprehensive defence network capable of countering a range of aerial threats, including ballistic missiles, aircraft, and drones. This multi-layered system will incorporate advanced Israeli-made radars and missile systems, forming the backbone of Greece's air defence strategy. The Greek Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defence (KYSEA) approved the programme on July 23, marking a significant step in Greece's military modernization efforts.
Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias emphasized the importance of this investment, stating that the total expenditure on the air defence systems will exceed €3 billion. He noted that the Achilles Shield is expected to become fully operational within 35 months, with its components being delivered in phases rather than all at once. This progressive delivery approach aims to ensure that Greece can begin to benefit from enhanced air defence capabilities sooner rather than later.
Among the key components of the Achilles Shield are Rafael's Spyder and David's Sling systems, as well as the Barak MX from Israel Aerospace Industries. These systems are designed to work in concert to provide a robust defence against various aerial threats. In a notable aspect of the programme, it is anticipated that at least 25% of the production will involve Greek companies, fostering local industry participation in national defence initiatives.
The collaboration between Greece and Israel in defence matters is not new. Cyprus, which has been strengthening its own air defence capabilities with Israeli systems, has seen increased cooperation with Greece. In March, during a regional crisis, Greece deployed F-16 fighters and two frigates to Cyprus, including one equipped with the Greek-made Kentavros anti-drone system, to enhance the island's defensive posture.
Cyprus currently operates Israel's Barak MX system and has recently approved the acquisition of four Kentavros counter-drone systems. The Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) has integrated the Kentavros system with Barak MX into a cohesive multi-layered architecture. HAI's chief, Alexandros Diakopoulos, referred to this integration as a "Shield of Achilles," underscoring the interconnected security interests of Greece and Cyprus as part of an "indivisible strategic space."
Furthermore, HAI is collaborating with Cypriot defence firms and has identified Cyprus as a potential regional support and maintenance hub for these advanced defence systems. This strategic partnership not only strengthens the military capabilities of both nations but also enhances regional stability through cooperative defence initiatives.
The Achilles Shield is part of Greece's broader military modernization programme, which aims to invest approximately €28 billion by 2036 in new weapons and defence capabilities. This comprehensive plan includes the acquisition of F-35 fighter aircraft, frigates, submarines, and unmanned systems, reflecting Greece's commitment to enhancing its national security in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
As Greece prepares to formalize this significant defence agreement with Israel, it highlights the growing importance of international partnerships in addressing contemporary security challenges. The Achilles Shield represents a critical step in bolstering Greece's air defence capabilities and underscores the strategic collaboration between Greece, Cyprus, and Israel in the realm of defence.