03 / 10
Greece signs €3bn Israeli air-defence deal
Greece will build its first integrated multilayered air-defence network using Israeli systems.
What happened
Greece and Israel signed a deal for a multilayered air-defence network called Achilles Shield. Valued at about €3 billion, it is described as their largest bilateral defence export agreement. Israel will supply David’s Sling, SPYDER and Barak MX systems as Greece modernises its forces amid regional security concerns.
Numbers
- €3 billionValue of the Achilles Shield deal — About $3.5 billion
- 3 systemsIsraeli air-defence systems included — David’s Sling, SPYDER, Barak MX
- 35 monthsReported implementation period — From contract signing
Questions
- What will coordinate the defences?
- The agreement includes a national command-and-control centre to integrate systems, manage launches and direct responses to aircraft, missiles and drones.
- What does each system cover?
- David’s Sling is intended for heavy rockets and ballistic missiles; SPYDER targets drones, while Barak MX is designed against aircraft and missiles.
- Why did Greece seek software access?
- Greek reports stated Athens sought software source-code access, allowing its armed forces greater influence over electronics and future system development.
- How does this fit bilateral ties?
- Greece and Israel have deepened defence ties over the past decade, but this agreement is their most significant deal.
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The catch
Coverage gives euro and dollar valuations but no payment terms or delivery milestones.
Completion details remain limited.