Greece to order Israeli Barak and PULS instead of US Patriot and HIMARS
Greece plans to buy Israeli air defence systems and long-range missiles instead of their US counterparts.
Here's What We Know
As part of a €25 billion plan to modernise its armed forces, Greece has decided to focus on developing air, missile and anti-drone defence, as well as enhancing long-range capabilities. Instead of additional Patriot batteries from the United States, Athens is ordering Barak MX systems from Israel, which can destroy targets at a distance of up to 150 km. The Greek government explains this by the long production time of the US systems.
Greece will also purchase 38 PULS multiple launch rocket systems for €500 million. They can use Extra missiles with a range of 150 km and Predator Hawk missiles with a range of 300 km.
PULS MULTIPLE LAUNCH ROCKET SYSTEMS. Illustration: Elbit Systems
In general, Greece's decision is not surprising, as Israeli weapons systems are gaining influence in Europe and around the world. For example, the Barak MX system has already been purchased by Slovakia, Azerbaijan, India, Morocco, Cyprus, and the Netherlands. Denmark, the Netherlands, Spain and Germany have also received PULS.
Athene's decision is a blow to the US, as such contracts for air defence and missile systems guarantee long-term cooperation due to the need for constant purchases of ammunition and maintenance.
Source: Ekathimerini
