Netanyahu links Israel-Greece defence deal to Cyprus partnership

Athens, Greece. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said a €3 billion security agreement signed with Greece was among the largest in Israel’s history and a continuation of the trilateral relationship developed with Cyprus over the past decade.

Defence agreement

In a post on X on Monday afternoon, Netanyahu described the agreement as “a direct continuation of the Eastern Mediterranean alliance we forged a decade ago with Greece and Cyprus”.

He said the deal demonstrated the capabilities of Israel’s defence and technology industries, reflected confidence in Israeli defence exports and strengthened regional alliances.

Israel and Greece signed the agreement on Monday for Israel to build a multi-layered air defence system for Greece, as Athens continues a broader military modernisation programme.

Systems to be supplied

Israel’s defence ministry said the agreement was its largest-ever defence export deal with Greece and one of the biggest in the country’s history.

Amir Baram, director general of Israel’s defence ministry, said the Achilles Shield deal reflected “Israel’s technological edge and the proven track record of our defence systems in the field.”

Under the agreement, Israel will provide David’s Sling and SPYDER systems manufactured by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the BARAK MX system made by Israel Aerospace Industries, and MMR multi-mission air-surveillance radars manufactured by IAI unit ELTA Systems.

Cyprus already operates Israel’s Barak MX system and has approved the acquisition of four Greek-made Kentavros counter-drone systems.