Greece and Israel Sign 'Achilles Shield' Air Defense Deal

Greece and Israel have signed a series of agreements to establish 'Achilles Shield', a multi-layered air defense network based primarily on Israeli systems. The deal includes David's Sling for long-range, Barak MX for medium-range, and SPYDER for short-to-medium range defense, integrated with ELM-2084 radars and a joint command and control system. Greek media report the program's value at approximately €3.1-4 billion, with at least 25% of the work (over €700 million) going to about 12 Greek companies. Greece will also receive access to the software source code to ensure control and reduce dependence on Israel. Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias described the program as a key element in military reform and a response to geopolitical and technological challenges, marking a shift from a collection of weapons to a comprehensive deterrence system. The deal will gradually replace older Russian systems (S-300, TOR-M1, OSA) and the American HAWK system.