What's happened
Greece plans to spend €28 billion by 2036 to modernize its armed forces, including a new Israeli missile defense system, to counter Turkey and bolster national security. The deal includes a €650-700 million purchase of the PULS system from Israel's Elbit, with components built locally.
What's behind the headline?
Greece's decision to invest heavily in military modernization, particularly with Israeli technology, signals a strategic shift towards bolstering regional security. The PULS system's 300 km range will significantly enhance Greece's ability to defend against potential threats from Turkey, with whom it has ongoing disputes over territorial and energy issues. The deal's inclusion of local component manufacturing indicates an effort to develop domestic defense industry capacity. This move aligns Greece more closely with Israel, reflecting broader regional security dynamics and NATO's evolving posture. The timing suggests Greece is prioritizing deterrence and sovereignty, potentially escalating regional arms competition. The deal may also influence Turkey's military planning, possibly prompting further regional arms acquisitions or diplomatic responses.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that Greece's parliament approved the €28 billion military upgrade plan, including the Israeli PULS missile system, to counter Turkey's influence and secure its borders. The Times of Israel highlights Greece's strategic partnership with Israel, including joint exercises and defense deals, emphasizing the significance of the €3 billion missile defense dome project. Reuters provides detailed insights into the financial scope and regional tensions, noting Greece's efforts to modernize its forces post-debt crisis and the importance of the PULS system's range and capabilities. While all sources agree on the core facts, The New Arab and Reuters focus on regional security implications, whereas The Times of Israel emphasizes diplomatic ties and technological cooperation.
How we got here
Greece is emerging from a debt crisis (2009-2018) and aims to strengthen its military capabilities amid longstanding tensions with Turkey. The country has increased defense spending and sought advanced missile defense systems, notably from Israel, to secure its northeastern border and Aegean islands.
Go deeper
Common question
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What Are Greece's Plans to Modernize Its Military?
Greece is investing heavily in modernizing its armed forces, including a significant deal with Israel for advanced missile defense systems. This move aims to strengthen national security, counter regional threats, and improve its military capabilities. But what exactly does Greece's military upgrade involve, and why is it so important? Below, we explore the key questions about Greece's military modernization efforts and what they mean for regional stability.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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Greece, officially the Hellenic Republic, known also as Hellas, is a country located in Southeast Europe. Its population is approximately 10.7 million as of 2018; Athens, the nation's capital, is its largest city, followed by Thessaloniki.