Greek-operated air defence system intercepts missile and drone near Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu

Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. An air defence system operated by Greek military personnel intercepted a ballistic missile and a drone on Thursday in the wider Yanbu region, which is home to major oil refining facilities, Greek security sources told Reuters.

Interceptions and alerts

One source said both targets were shot down and that the Greek Patriot system launched two missiles. The source did not provide details on the origin of the ballistic missile or drone. A second source confirmed the interceptions.

Earlier on Thursday, Saudi civil defence issued alerts warning of potential danger in the holy city of Mecca, the northwestern Tabuk area, the Red Sea areas of Jeddah and Yanbu, and the southern Taif area.

Greek deployment

It was the fifth time the Greek-operated system had been used in combat since the US and Israel launched their war with Iran at the end of February, marking a wider military role for European allies in defending Gulf energy infrastructure.

Greece has deployed a US-made Patriot air defence battery operated by Greek personnel in Saudi Arabia since 2021 under an agreement to help protect the kingdom’s energy facilities.