Greece is on the home stretch toward signing a large-scale agreement with Israel for air defense, part of the planned "Achilles" defense shield. The government in Athens is preparing to give the green light for the acquisition of Israeli systems with a total value of approximately 3 billion euros, with the goal of significantly strengthening the national air and missile shield.
What the "Achilles" contract includes
According to information from Greek defense sources, the program provides for the purchase of three main Israeli air defense systems. These are the "Spyder All-in-One" and "David's Sling" from the company "Rafael," as well as "Barak MX," developed by "Israel Aerospace Industries" (IAI).
The "Spyder" system is designed for short and medium-range operation, "David's Sling" for intercepting missiles and aerial targets at medium to long ranges, and "Barak MX" offers a modular approach and can cover various layers of air defense. Combined, the three systems form a multi-layered defense shield that is to be integrated into the overall architecture of the "Achilles" program.
Upcoming approval by KYSEA and intergovernmental agreement
The Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense "KYSEA" – the highest national security body in Greece – could approve the deal as early as next week. If a positive decision is reached, Athens and Jerusalem will be able to proceed with the signing of an intergovernmental agreement.
Following approval, it is expected that the "General Directorate for Defense Investments and Armaments" of the Greek Ministry of Defense (GDDIA) and the Israeli defense cooperation agency "SIBAT" will sign an agreement for the acquisition of the three systems, as well as the necessary command, control, and logistical support infrastructure.
Key condition: at least 25% participation of the Greek industry
Official representatives emphasize that the main obstacles in the negotiations have already been overcome. Among them were legal issues and an important requirement from Athens – that at least 25% of the project must be carried out with the participation of the Greek defense industry.
This very criterion proved to be one of the most serious challenges. Some of the Israeli companies were reluctant to share information about sensitive technologies, and on the Greek side, it was necessary to identify enterprises capable of undertaking complex manufacturing and integration activities.
In the end, a compromise was reached: the "Hellenic Aerospace Industry" (EAB), "Intracom Defense," and other private companies will participate in the project, producing components such as launch canisters, cable systems, and supporting structures.
Production lines and technological cooperation
It is expected that "EAB" will cooperate with "IAI" and "Rafael" to build a small production line in "Tanagra," north of Athens. Subsystems for the air defense complexes will be integrated there, which will enable part of the production to be localized in Greece.
"Intracom Defense" is planning a similar manufacturing partnership, including participation in the creation of key system components. Greek companies will participate not only in mechanical manufacturing but also in the development of elements of the "Achilles" command and control center, which will connect weapon complexes, radars, and sensors, and will provide technical support for the systems and ammunition.
Expanding participation in supply chains
The requirement for at least 25% local industry participation is expected to be met not only through work on the "Achilles" project itself but also through the inclusion of Greek companies in the supply chains of future programs by "Rafael" and "Israel Aerospace Industries." This includes potential projects for Israel and for international clients.
In this way, the Greek industry will not just receive orders under a specific contract, but will have the chance to be more permanently integrated into the global production and technological networks of the Israeli companies. For Athens, this is an important element of the strategy to strengthen its own defense base and increase technological capacity.
Strategic context
The planned "Achilles" defense shield fits into the broader context of Greece's efforts to modernize and strengthen its air and missile defense capabilities. In a region with a complex geopolitical situation, including tensions in the "Eastern Mediterranean," Athens views such systems as a key tool for protecting its national space and critical infrastructure.
The deal with Israel, if finally approved and signed, will represent one of Greece's largest defense contracts in recent years. It will combine the purchase of high-tech systems with real industrial participation, which is expected to bring not only military but also economic and technological benefits to the country.