Greece has signed a $3.5 billion defense agreement with Israel to establish its first integrated multi-layered air defense network by 2029. Negotiated over three years, the contract involves engineering an aerial defense shield integrating three Israeli systems: the SPYDER system produced by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the BARAK MX system manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries, and David’s Sling technology.
Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias noted in a statement that modern conflicts have altered military defense and deterrence parameters, rendering pre-existing doctrines unrealistic due to ballistic missiles, unmanned systems, cyber threats, and hybrid warfare. According to military reporting, the SPYDER and David’s Sling are short-to-medium-range systems designed to intercept incoming aircraft, cruise missiles, and large drones, while the BARAK system is also capable of intercepting incoming ballistics, as reported in a feature by Al Jazeera.
Additionally, Greece finalized a $30 million contract for Rafael’s Drone Dome system to defend strategic sites against unmanned aerial vehicles and reinforce existing defenses. Greece represents the second European Union member to agree to acquire the David’s Sling system, following Finland. The Hellenic Republic allocates nearly 3.5 percent of its gross domestic product to defense, exceeding the spending proportion of many NATO allies amid long-standing regional disputes.
