Greece to buy $3.1 billion “Achilles Shield” missile defense system from Israel

Greece has approved plans to buy “Achilles Shield,” a multi-layer air defense system from Israel, in a deal reported to cost around $3.1 billion. The Greek defense minister said the council KYSEA gave initial approval earlier this year and finalized procurement contracts this week. The system is intended to protect Greece against ballistic missiles, aircraft, drones and other aerial threats, using an integrated command-and-control approach. The initiative is also expected to involve Israeli radars and missiles from Rafael and IAI, with Greek industry contributing part of the work.