Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has revealed Greece’s intention to apply for €1.2 billion in loans under the European Union’s SAFE program, with the goal of accelerating defence upgrades.
Athens is preparing to submit a detailed proposal that brings forward key military programs originally planned for post-2030 implementation.
Central to this effort is the “Achilles Shield” initiative, which aims to significantly strengthen the country’s air defence network. Among the systems under review is the Israeli-designed BARAK MX, a medium-range air defence platform currently deployed by Cyprus.
Greece is also looking to acquire up to 36 PULS (Precise and Universal Launching System) multiple rocket launchers, also from Israel, in a deal estimated at €690 million.
Both weapons systems fall within the eligibility criteria for EU support through the SAFE program.
