Defense Minister Israel Katz said Monday that the 'Achilles Shield' defense deal with Greece reflects the deepening strategic alliance between the two countries. Katz noted that during his visit to Greece earlier this year, he and Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias agreed to tighten defense cooperation, emphasizing shared strategic interests amid regional challenges.
Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed on Monday that the 'Achilles Shield' defense deal with Greece deepens the strategic alliance between the two nations. Speaking at 13:41 Jerusalem, Katz recalled his visit to Greece earlier this year as a guest of Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, during which they agreed to tighten defense cooperation. Katz emphasized shared strategic interests and common regional challenges, particularly from actors seeking to expand influence and destabilize the region.
The deal was first reported on Saturday at 16:57 Jerusalem, when Channel 12 journalist Nitzan Shapira disclosed a defense export deal described as the largest in bilateral history. Within the same hour, The Zioneer published multiple updates: the deal was named 'Achilles Shield,' valued at approximately €3 billion (over NIS 10 billion), and includes David's Sling, SPYDER, and BARAK MX systems from Rafael and IAI. The signing ceremony in Tel Aviv was confirmed by the Israeli Defense Ministry and Greek procurement chief Yannis Bouras. A separate €26 million contract for Drone Dome anti-drone systems was also signed.
As The Zioneer reported on July 26, Greece approved the $4 billion 'Achilles Shield' system in July 2026, with an operational timeline of 35 months. The deal marks the largest defense export in Israel-Greece relations, reflecting a decade of expanding cooperation including joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and technological collaboration. The broader strategic partnership, which also involves Cyprus, has been a key pillar of Israel's Eastern Mediterranean posture.
The operational timeline of 35 months and the integration of Israeli radars and missiles remain as previously reported. No further details on implementation or additional contracts have been disclosed.
13 developments
- StrongGreece approves $4 billion 'Achilles Shield' air defense deal from Israel
- DevelopingIsrael to build multi-layered defense array in Greece in one of largest export deals ever
- DevelopingKatz: 'Whoever raises a hand against Israel will pay a price; we won't leave security zones'
- DevelopingKatz convenes top security chiefs, orders expansion of offensive operations in Judea and Samaria
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