Defense Minister Israel Katz on Monday reaffirmed the strategic alliance between Israel and Greece, citing his recent meeting with Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias and the 'Achilles Shield' defense deal. Katz said both countries share common interests and will continue to strengthen cooperation to counter hegemonic ambitions in the region.
Israel and Greece signed the 'Achilles Shield' agreement on Monday, August 31, in Tel Aviv, marking one of the largest defense export deals in Israel's history. The €3 billion ($3.6 billion) deal was signed by Israel's Ministry of Defense Director General, Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram, and Greek Director General for Armaments and Investments, Yannis Bouras.
The multi-layered air defense network will integrate Israeli-made systems including David's Sling (Rafael), BARAK MX (IAI), and SPYDER, along with MMR radars and a national command-and-control center. The project is scheduled for completion within 35 months and includes 25% Greek industrial participation. A separate €26 million agreement was signed for Rafael's Drone Dome counter-drone systems.
Defense Minister Israel Katz, who visited Greece earlier this year, said the deal reflects the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries. 'Israel and Greece share common strategic interests and face common regional challenges,' Katz stated. 'At a time when actors with hegemonic ambitions seek to expand their influence and destabilize the region, Israel and Greece will continue to deepen their defense and strategic cooperation.'
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
Source and signal
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