Greece is taking a new step to strengthen its air defense capabilities. The country's security council, KISEA, has approved the acquisition of a multi-layered air defense and anti-drone system.
Modern.az reports that, according to information, the total cost of the project is approximately 3 billion euros. In addition, Greece also plans to modernize 38 F-16 fighter jets, and with additional costs in this direction, the total amount approaches 4 billion euros.
The new defense system “Achilles' Shield” has been named and one of its main elements will be Israeli-made missiles. Greece's Minister of Defense, Nikos Dendias, stated that within the framework of the project, the country's naval forces will also be strengthened, and four MEKO 200 frigates will be modernized.
However, criticisms regarding this decision have also been voiced within the country. Greece's former Minister of Finance, Yanis Varoufakis, stated that with this policy, Athens is falling into Israel's sphere of influence and weakening its independence.
Developments are also being closely monitored in the region. This decision is regarded as a sensitive signal for Turkey. It should be recalled that in February, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and the parties discussed a new phase in relations.
However, Greece's expansion of military cooperation with Israel is met with caution in Ankara.
Thus, Greece's new defense plan is regarded as an important signal not only militarily but also in terms of the political balance in the region.
