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Greece to Buy Israeli Missile Systems for Air Defense for $3.5 Billion
(Army Recognition) Alain Servaes - Greece is advancing plans for a $3.5 billion modernization of its air-defense network, the Greek City Times reported on Nov. 11. The program aims to replace a patchwork of older Russian and U.S.-made systems with an integrated, multi-layered network sourced primarily from Israeli defense contractors. The Israeli SPYDER air defense system by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems would replace Greece's Russian-made TOR-M1 units. The SPYDER system is known for its rapid reaction time, autonomous engagement capabilities, and mobility, offering a significant upgrade for countering low-flying threats, including UAVs, cruise missiles, and aircraft. For the medium-range layer, the Israeli Barak MX system is to replace Greece's legacy U.S.-supplied MIM-23 Hawk batteries. The Barak MX integrates multiple interceptors into a unified launcher and enables simultaneous tracking and engagement of multiple targets. At the upper tier of Greece's new missile defense network, the Israeli SkyCeptor interceptor - a variant of the Stunner missile used in the David's Sling system - is slated to replace the long-range Russian-made S-300 PMU-1 systems. The Israeli systems are combat-proven, having been deployed extensively in Israeli air-defense operations. Greece has favored Israeli systems over U.S. or European alternatives in part due to shorter delivery timelines, lower lifecycle costs, and expanded local industrial participation. Greek defense industry sources confirm that the first wave of systems is targeted for deployment starting in 2026, with full operational capability expected before the end of 2028.