Greece’s Israeli-built ‘defensive wall’ shifts balance of power against Erdoğan

Greece has signed a €3 billion (approx. $3.5 billion) deal with Israel to acquire a multilayered air-defense network, significantly bolstering its military capabilities against Turkey. This agreement, part of Greece's "Achilles' Shield" doctrine, includes the transfer of know-how and technology to Greek industry, further strengthening the alliance between Israel, Greece, and Cyprus. The network will feature Israel's David's Sling, Barak MX, and SPYDER systems, supported by advanced radar and a command-and-control center. Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias stated the goal is "to protect its territory holistically," in the air, at sea and beneath the waves. The systems will initially be deployed in Greece's northeast, eastern Aegean islands, and around critical infrastructure to counter Turkey's "Blue Homeland" doctrine and its naval expansion. Greece is also acquiring F-35 warplanes, loitering munitions, and frigates from other nations, with a consistent emphasis on domestic industry participation and technology transfer.