Greece Plans Major Military Deal with Israel Against Turkey

Greece has confirmed a deal with Israel worth $1.68 billion, which includes the acquisition of 10 advanced fighter jets and training for pilots. Athens is modernizing its defense based on the recent tensions with its long-standing rival, Turkey.

The ceremony to formalize this deal is set to take place in the coming weeks, marking the largest agreement signed between Greece and Israel in the defense sector.

Greek expert on international relations, Kostas Filis, stated, "Trust is not easily given to others in Israel, especially regarding defense matters." He noted that this deal is significant not only for advancing military capabilities but could also deepen the relationship between Athens and Jerusalem, highlighting a shift in Greece's orientation towards the Arab world over the past twenty years.

According to Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz, this agreement "will serve the interests of both Israel and Greece, creating hundreds of new jobs in both countries and contributing to stability in the Mediterranean region." If signed, Israel will sell Greece ten Mavi M-346 military aircraft, simulators, and provide logistical support.

Israeli defense electronics company Elbit Systems will establish a flight school in Greece to train pilots for the Hellenic Air Force. In recent years, Greece has rented drones from Israel to monitor its borders with Turkey, particularly in the Aegean Sea.

Last year, Greece and Israel joined Cyprus to build a 1,900-kilometer underwater pipeline aimed at exporting natural gas from rapidly developing gas fields in the eastern Mediterranean to Europe. These energy-related agreements have significantly concerned Turkey, which has sent research vessels to maritime areas that Greece considers its territory in search of natural resources.

NATO members Greece and Turkey have long challenged one another in air and maritime territories, and these two alliance members were on the brink of war exactly 25 years ago in the Aegean Sea. As disputes continue to escalate, Athens has decided to purchase new aircraft, warships, helicopters, and other systems from the United States and France as well.