Athens, Greece. Greece’s security council, KYSEA, is expected to give final approval on Thursday to contracts for a multi-layer air defence system from Israel worth up to €3.5 billion ($4 billion), as well as purchases of drones from Israel and the United States, according to two sources.
The planned system, known as “Achilles Shield”, is intended to provide anti-ballistic, anti-aircraft and anti-drone capabilities.
Defence system procurement
KYSEA gave initial approval for the procurement earlier this year and is expected to approve the contracts, an official familiar with the deal told Reuters.
Israeli radars and missiles produced by Rafael and IAI are expected to form the core of the planned air defence system.
Greece currently uses U.S.-made Patriot systems and older Russian S-300 systems to protect its airspace.
Drone purchases
KYSEA is also expected to approve the purchase of drones from the United States and Israel, the first official said. A second official confirmed the planned Israeli air defence system and drone purchases.
Last year, Greece approved the acquisition of 36 Israeli-made rocket artillery systems for about €650 million.
Military modernisation
The Greek government has said it plans to spend about €28 billion by 2036 to modernise its armed forces. The programme includes plans to buy up to 40 F-35 fighter jets from the United States and frigates from France and Italy.
Greece spends nearly 3.5% of its gross domestic product on defence, a higher share than many other NATO members, amid its long-standing dispute with Turkey.
Greece and Israel maintain economic and diplomatic ties, operate an air training centre in Greece, conduct annual joint military exercises and cooperate on anti-drone systems and cybersecurity.