Greece’s €3.1 billion agreement to acquire air defense technology from Israel is being assessed in terms of the debates over Palestine and Lebanon, as well as its economic consequences. The agreement provides for the procurement of the medium- and long-range David’s Sling system.
Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias said the agreement would carry the country into “a new reality.” The assessment argues that states have the right to defend themselves against potential attacks and emphasizes the importance of protection against missiles, fighter jets and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Israel’s involvement in the Achilles Shield project
The agreement with Israel is being considered as part of the previously launched Achilles Shield air defense project. The project’s total budget is €4.2 billion, and the new agreement would transfer a significant portion of those funds to Israel.
In an assessment by Klaus Jurgens, Israel’s inclusion of Greece in the project could have regional and political consequences. The assessment points to continuing serious international accusations against Israel over its actions in Palestine and argues that the defense agreement could be intended to divert public attention elsewhere.
The assessment also argues that Israel’s actions against Lebanon have increased regional instability. It suggests that the agreement could be part of a policy capable of deepening differences among European and NATO countries.
Finland and the United States
Finland is expected to begin using the David’s Sling system in 2027. The assessment argues that if other NATO members turn to Israeli-made air defense technology after Greece and Finland, this could help Israel present itself as a partner that promotes peace.
The agreement could not have been concluded without U.S. approval, according to the assessment. It cites Washington’s authority over the transfer of intellectual property to third parties involving the technology used as the reason.
The assessment argues that NATO members’ purchase of defense technology from Israel is politically and legally contentious while proceedings continue at the International Court of Justice. It also notes that other countries produce air defense systems and argues that NATO members should reconsider such agreements.
Debate over the economic return to Greece
The assessment says that only 25% of the €3.1 billion investment will return to the Greek economy through the participation of Greek companies in production. It therefore argues that the agreement does not represent a fully mutually beneficial model for Greece.
The assessment argues that Greece might be better served by focusing on creating jobs domestically rather than on contested perceptions of threats. It also says that the agreement to purchase 36 Israeli-made rocket artillery systems for $740 million last year should be assessed alongside the new defense partnership.
The assessment alleges that Israel may be seeking to influence public perceptions of Türkiye by exporting technology to Greece. This assessment has not been supported by independent verification or an official statement.
