The anticipated package includes Rafael’s Spyder system to replace Greece’s Russian Osa-AK and Tor-M1 systems, Israel Aerospace Industries’ Barak MX to replace the Hawk system, and Rafael’s David’s Sling to replace the Russian S-300 system. These capabilities are expected to be integrated into a wider air defence array alongside Greece’s existing Patriot missiles.
“As a result of conflicts around the world and growing threats, the procurement of air defense systems is on the rise,” Israel Aerospace Industries CEO Boaz Levy told “Globes.” “The Greeks know what they are getting, and it’s not for nothing that they’re talking about the Barak MX, because it can be used against aircraft, missiles, and ballistic missiles. This is a system that has been deployed operationally; whoever buys knows what they are buying. Interest in the system is not confined to Greece.”
The Barak MX has already been sold to several countries, with the largest deal concluded with Azerbaijan in November 2023 for $1.2 billion. Greece’s large procurement effort reflects years of underinvestment in its military technologies, which has left it lagging behind, particularly in relation to perceived threats from Turkey.
The planned acquisition is intended to reinforce air defence coverage over the Thrace region and the eastern Aegean. Greek and Israeli officials expect further agreements to follow as Greece continues its broader modernisation programme.
Source: Globes.
