Envisioned as a comprehensive, five-tiered defense architecture, Greece’s “Achilles’ Shield” program, a top priority for the Mitsotakis government’s defense overhaul, aims to establish a robust shield against a spectrum of threats.
This ambitious system, projected at around 2.8 billion euros, integrates measures to counter tactical ballistic missiles, aircraft, naval vessels, submarines, and the increasingly critical threat of drones.
It is expected to be operational by 2027, according to Mitsotakis, who outlined his government’s long-term defense strategy on Wednesday, detailing plans for defense equipment over the next 12 years.
Speaking at a parliamentary session on defense procurement, Mitsotakis provided an overview of how most of the 27 billion euros budgeted until 2036 will be utilized, though he did not delve into all specifics. Notably, the prime minister mentioned Israel as a strategic partner in enhancing anti-missile capabilities.
He said Greece has the Patriot system but that current demand may free up resources for a new system in four to five years. “European capabilities are limited. Israel, with which we share a strategic alliance, may provide these capabilities sooner.”
Defense Minister Nikos Dendias emphasized that this overhaul represents a “complete shift” in Greece’s defense approach, moving towards a high-tech, networked strategy.
“We propose a comprehensive, full approach to defense. To start with, a complete change of dogma,” Dendias said and added: “We’re moving beyond the outdated notion of solely relying on the fleet to defend the Aegean. With ‘Achilles’ Shield,’ we’re implementing a comprehensive, multi-layered defense across our entire territory.
“This new approach leverages a sophisticated yet cost-effective network of concealed and AI-driven missile systems, under unified ‘command and control,’ to counter threats from missiles, aircraft, drones, surface vessels, and submarines.”
The change, he said, would free the fleet, especially the new ships in the fleet, to operate as strategic deterrence arms, and the same would be done with airplanes—the Rafales and Mirages that may carry strategic arms.
While specific details are still emerging, reports indicate that Greece is in negotiations with Israel for components of the “Achilles’ Shield,” particularly for anti-missile and anti-drone systems.
While advanced negotiations with Israel are underway for specific systems like the PULS rocket launchers and potentially an “Iron Dome-like” missile defense system, these represent significant parts of the project but not the entirety of it.
France, Italy and Norway have also been mentioned as potential suppliers of new weapons systems that could be integrated into the shield.
A key objective of Greece’s broader defense modernization plan, as Mitsotakis highlighted, is to strengthen its domestic defense industry. This suggests that Greek companies will likely play a role in the “Achilles’ Shield” project, although the extent is not yet fully clear.
The name “Achilles’ Shield” is a clear reference to the legendary shield described in Homer’s Iliad.
That shield, forged by the god Hephaestus, was renowned for its intricate and comprehensive depiction of the world and its protective power. The modern project aims to create a similarly comprehensive and protective shield for Greece using modern technology.
