Athens, Greece – The Hellenic National Security Council (KYSEA) is holding a crucial meeting today at 10:00 AM at the Maximos Palace. The session is chaired by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The meeting will discuss developments related to Operation Achilles Shield. This historic step marks a new era for the Hellenic Armed Forces.
The meeting of the Greek National Security Council aims to formally approve one of the largest arms procurement programs in the country’s modern history. The program, with a total cost of approximately €4.3 billion, aims to modernize defense capabilities and enhance the readiness of the armed forces. Furthermore, this is intended to enable the country to confidently and resolutely confront various evolving regional and international challenges.
“Achilles Shield,” the defensive crown jewel worth 3.5 billion euros
The new armament package, “Achilles Shield,” is the crown jewel of this ambitious program to build a comprehensive air defense dome for the country. The package is estimated to cost around €3.5 billion. The new “Achilles Shield” system will replace the existing fragmented air defense network. Moreover, it will establish a sophisticated and highly effective defense structure capable of countering any potential external threat, such as ballistic and cruise missiles and modern drones. This will ensure the complete and effective protection of Greek airspace according to the latest international military standards.
A wide range of deals including aircraft and satellites
In addition to the Achilles Shield, the meeting will give the green light to a wide range of diverse armament programs previously approved by Parliament. The package includes the purchase of three new Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft from Portugal. Furthermore, small military satellites will be developed under a strategic cooperation program with Poland. It also includes deals for VICTA boats capable of transporting eight special forces personnel both above and below the water. The package further includes two Heron unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with integrated weapons. In addition, non-kinetic counter-drone systems will be delivered for the islands of the Eastern Aegean Sea.
Strengthening the naval and air fleet with advanced systems
In the same vein, the massive armament package includes ten V-BAT systems, comprising a total of twenty aircraft, in addition to extra missiles, advanced periscopes, and modern sonar equipment specifically designed for the Meko-class frigates. The modernization plans also include the acquisition of an additional Heron-1 drone from Israel to bolster the existing fleet. This drone will be dedicated to surveillance, reconnaissance, and intelligence missions in the Aegean Sea. With this, the Greek government reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding its national security and regional stability. It seeks to do so through a comprehensive and advanced military strategy for the coming years.
