Greece has approved the procurement of Israel’s multi-layered Achilles Shield air defence system as part of a wider military modernisation programme aimed at strengthening protection against missiles, aircraft and unmanned threats.
The Greek government has approved the acquisition of the Israeli-developed Achilles Shield integrated air defence system in a deal worth €2.8 billion (£2.4 billion / US$3.1 billion), marking one of the country’s largest defence procurements to date.
Approved by Greece’s Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defence (KYSEA), the programme will provide a layered defensive network capable of countering ballistic missiles, aircraft and unmanned aerial systems. The project forms a central pillar of Athens’ long-term military modernisation strategy and reflects growing defence cooperation between Greece and Israel.
Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias confirmed the procurement had received final approval alongside several other capability investments, including transport aircraft and unmanned systems, as the country continues to strengthen its armed forces amid evolving regional security challenges.
Multi-layered protection
Achilles Shield is designed to integrate anti-missile, anti-aircraft and counter-UAS capabilities into a single command-and-control architecture, enabling coordinated detection, tracking and engagement of multiple airborne threats.
The system will combine advanced Israeli radar and interceptor technologies with Greece’s existing air defence infrastructure, creating a more resilient and responsive national defensive network. Officials have indicated the architecture will support faster threat identification and improved interoperability across the Hellenic Armed Forces.
The procurement forms part of Greece’s broader effort to modernise its military capabilities while enhancing deterrence in the Eastern Mediterranean. Alongside the new air defence system, Athens continues to invest in fighter aircraft, transport platforms, unmanned systems and naval capabilities as part of its long-term defence planning.
Industrial participation
Greek officials have also highlighted the role of domestic industry in the programme, with local companies expected to contribute to production and systems integration. According to Defence Minister Dendias, at least 25% of the programme will involve Greek industrial participation, supporting the country’s defence manufacturing base while strengthening sovereign capability.
The approval further reinforces the expanding strategic defence relationship between Greece and Israel, which has grown significantly in recent years through procurement programmes, joint exercises and wider security cooperation.
