Greece is negotiating with Israel to develop a €2 billion ($2.11 billion) anti-aircraft and missile defence system similar to Israel’s Iron Dome, Greek defence officials said Thursday.
The planned multi-layer defence system would be capable of intercepting short- and long-range missiles and drones, a source close to closed-door discussions with Defence Minister Nikos Dendias told Reuters.
The project is part of Greece’s broader €12.8 billion military modernisation plan through 2035, which includes acquiring up to 40 F-35 fighter jets and drones from the United States, along with Belharra frigates and Rafale jets from France.
Greece currently relies on US Patriot and Russian S-300 systems for air defence. The modernisation effort comes as Greece seeks to maintain military parity with NATO ally Turkey, despite recent improvements in bilateral relations. The neighbouring countries remain at odds over issues including sea boundaries, energy resources and eastern Mediterranean airspace.
“Our effort is for a quick transition of our armed forces to the 21st century”, Defence Minister Dendias said before Thursday’s briefing.
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