Israel has committed to helping Greece develop sophisticated technology to counter swarms of military drones, marking a significant deepening of defence cooperation between the two nations in the strategically important eastern Mediterranean region.
Strengthening Defence Ties
The pledge was announced following high-level talks in Athens between Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz. This development builds directly upon a comprehensive defence pact signed between Greece, Israel, and Cyprus in December, which established a framework for enhanced military collaboration.
"We agreed to exchange views and expertise so that we can counter unmanned platforms — specifically swarms of unmanned aerial vehicles and groups of unmanned underwater vehicles," stated Minister Dendias during a joint appearance with Minister Katz.
An Anchor of Stability
In response, Israel Katz characterised the growing partnership as "an anchor of stability in the Mediterranean." This cooperation is not entirely new; Israel is already actively assisting Greece in constructing a comprehensive air defence shield, a project that forms a cornerstone of their expanding strategic relationship.
The Modern Warfare Challenge
The focus on countering drone swarms addresses a critical shift in contemporary military tactics. These swarms typically utilise numerous small, low-cost drones that operate in a coordinated manner, presenting complex challenges for traditional defence systems. They are employed for various purposes, including reconnaissance missions, defensive operations, and attempts to overwhelm an adversary's air defences through sheer numbers.
Regional Security Context
This enhanced cooperation occurs against a backdrop of ongoing regional tensions. Greece, which maintains high levels of military spending relative to the size of its economy, remains engaged in a protracted dispute with fellow NATO member Turkey. The core issues involve competing claims over maritime boundaries and access to valuable offshore energy resources in the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean seas.
The Trilateral Agreement
The foundational December defence pact between Greece, Israel, and Cyprus outlined an ambitious joint plan for combined military exercises, specialised training for special operations forces, and regular high-level strategic consultations. This agreement itself followed a series of summit talks between the leaders of the three countries, all aimed at advancing shared interests in maritime security and collaborative energy initiatives.
The latest commitment on counter-drone technology represents a tangible and advanced step in implementing this broader strategic vision, solidifying a defence partnership that seeks to bolster security in a volatile region.
