Greece to Set up “Achilles Shield” Integrated Air Defense System

The Greek government has approved a €3.5 billion defense procurement package including the “Achilles Shield” integrated air defense system, a layered air defense, ballistic missile defense and counter-drone network. 

According to Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, a key part of the defense package will be the creation of a multi-level air defense and missile defense system "Achilles Shield" to protect against ballistic missiles and drones, Greeek publication Ekathimerini reports.

The complex will be based on Israeli radars and missiles, including the Heron 1 unmanned systems, 10 V-BAT Class II aircraft, and SAR satellites. In addition, Euro 700 million worth procurement will happen from the Greek defense industry.

Greece will also purchase anti-drone systems and 10 special underwater vehicles for its Navy and special forces. The package includes funds to upgrade four Hydra-class frigates (MEKO 200HN) with modern anti-submarine systems.

The air component will be reinforced with three Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft under an intergovernmental agreement with Portugal. The purchase of AGM-114 Hellfire guided missiles for AH-64 Apache attack helicopters and night vision devices for infantry has also been approved.

In addition to the purchase of equipment, funding will be directed to training officers in the United States in autonomous systems and artificial intelligence. The second phase of the defense program for 2027–2037, which will include the purchase of F-35 fighters and new frigates, will be presented in September.