Greece plans to acquire modern missile systems from Israel to build an anti-aircraft defense dome dubbed Achilles Shield, according to two sources who spoke to Reuters.
Athens will spend about $3.48 billion for the air defense system as part of a wider effort to modernize the nation’s armed forces and keep pace with rival Turkey.
What System Is Greece Seeking From Israel?
One unnamed official shared that Greece is currently seeking to buy 36 Precise and Universal Rocket Launchers, or PULs, and anti-aircraft systems for the program.
Israeli company Elbit Systems makes PULs, which are autonomous artillery rocket systems also used by the Armed Forces of Morocco, the Royal Netherlands Army and other European countries.
Negotiations with Israel are expected to intensify next month. The official said Greek companies would provide about 25 percent of the planned effort.
The 36 PULS rocket artillery systems are estimated to cost $753.6 million, and would be placed on Greece’s eastern borders with Turkey.
A second official with knowledge of the matter confirmed that talks are underway.
How Would New Purchases Fit Into Greece’s Defense Posture?
Greece expressed interest in acquiring modern artillery and anti-aircraft systems from Israel in 2024, but discussions were postponed due to Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
The Hellenic Armed Forces intends to use the PULs to replace its Russian-made OSA, TOR-M1 and S-300 systems. Greece also uses U.S.-made Patriot anti-aircraft systems.